As crackdowns on passengers flying with lithium battery-operated items continue, Southwest Airlines’ latest policy related to the matter will impact its customers who use motorized wheelchairs and scooters.
According to The Hill, the carrier’s Vice President of Safety and Security, Dave Hunt, sent a memo to company employees on September 12 regarding a policy change for how those using lithium-powered mobility devices will board. The statement noted that as part of “new safety requirements,” Southwest flyers who use those devices, such as motorized wheelchairs and scooters, will have to take the lithium batteries out of those devices before boarding.
The new Southwest policy will go into effect September 25.
“These updates are designed to enhance safety and align with international standards, further protecting our customers and our crew members,” said Hunt, according to PEOPLE.
“Lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke and fire incidents on aircraft,” Hunt added. “While these events are rare, quick access and visibility are critical to keeping everyone onboard safe. By taking proactive steps now, Southwest will be among the first U.S. carriers to adopt these higher standards.”
What Else Is There To Know About The Change In Southwest Airlines’ Policy?
Another change Southwest is incorporating is that, starting January 11, it will ban travel with larger 300-watt-hour (Wh) motorized mobility vehicles.
“We recognize how important mobility devices are to many of our customers, and this update is designed to prioritize safety without creating unnecessary barriers to travel,” Hunt noted. “While this change applies to less than 0.1% of our customers, we remain committed to supporting each individual who may be affected.”
The changes to Southwest Airlines’ policy come as several lithium battery-related incidents and regulations in aviation have recently made headlines. Earlier this month, the Transportation Security Administration reminded travelers to pack electric toothbrushes and “anything that buzzes” with lithium batteries in their carry-ons.
In August, an American Airlines flight was forced to divert after a passenger’s device caught fire. Additionally, Emirates announced that it will ban power bank usage on its flights starting October 1 due to “lithium battery–related incidents onboard flights across the wider aviation industry.”
