Southwest Airlines has updated its rules for lithium batteries on flights to align with evolving federal safety guidance and address rising incidents involving portable electronics and power banks. The policy covers batteries in carry‑on baggage, checked baggage, and installed devices, emphasizing strict limits on watt‑hour rating, quantity per passenger, and required protection against short circuits. These changes aim to reduce fire risk while keeping travel predictable for passengers who rely on laptops, medical devices, and mobility aids. Below are the key rules, exceptions, and practical steps to comply.
Key battery rules at a glance
Southwest follows FAA and TSA guidance and generally aligns with the rules of other major U.S. carriers. The essentials are straightforward: most personal devices in carry‑ons are permitted, loose batteries are restricted, and checked baggage rules depend on battery type. Below are the most common scenarios travelers encounter.
Common battery scenarios and allowances
| Battery or device type | Allowed in carry‑on | Allowed in checked baggage | Notes and restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laptop or tablet (under 100 Wh) | Yes | Yes | Protected terminals; airline can remove if damaged |
| Power bank / portable charger (under 100 Wh) | Yes, must be accessible | No | Maximum rating typically 20,000 mAh; one to two per passenger |
| Spare lithium‑ion batteries (under 100 Wh) | Yes, in carry‑on only | No | Maximum quantity often stated as 20 spare cells; must be individually protected |
| Lithium‑metal spare batteries | Yes, in carry‑on only | No | Generally limited to 2 g lithium metal per battery; must be protected |
| Wheelchair or mobility device batteries | Yes | Yes, if not removable | May require documentation; if removable, treat as spares |
| Medical devices with batteries | Yes | Yes | Notify airline; keep documentation if possible |
What the watt‑hour and size limits mean
Watt‑hour (Wh) measures how much energy a battery can store. Most travelers only need to know the 100 Wh line: batteries under 100 Wh are widely allowed in carry‑on baggage with safeguards, while those over 100 Wh are generally prohibited in checked bags and often in carry‑ons unless they are installed in devices. For reference, a typical laptop battery falls between 40–60 Wh, and many power banks are under 200 Wh but are still capped by quantity rules. Batteries rated between 100 Wh and 300 Wh may be permitted only with prior airline approval and specific handling. Always check the label on the battery itself, because rules refer to the manufacturer’s rated watt‑hours, not the printed mAh figure.
Quick reference for popular battery types
- Smartphone batteries: usually under 10 Wh; allowed in any baggage
- Small power banks under 100 Wh and within quantity limits: allowed in carry‑on, must be accessible
- Laptop batteries (under 100 Wh): allowed in carry‑on and checked, terminals protected
- Spare lithium‑ion cells over 100 Wh: generally not allowed without special approval
- Lithium‑metal primary cells: limited lithium content, carry‑on only, individually protected
How to pack lithium batteries safely
Proper packing reduces the chance of short circuits and makes inspection easier. Switch devices off and, when possible, place batteries in original retail packaging or in protective cases. If no case exists, cover exposed terminals with nonconductive tape or place each battery in a separate plastic bag or compartment. Avoid packing loose batteries together where metal objects could bridge terminals. Never crush, pierce, or expose batteries to heat sources. If you are carrying a power bank, keep it in your carry‑on and do not pack it in a checked suitcase where it could be damaged by machinery or pressure changes.
Checked baggage and power‑bank policies
Southwest generally does not allow loose spare lithium‑ion batteries in checked bags because of fire risk. If a device containing a battery can be safely turned off, it may be checked, but the airline may request it be carried instead. Power banks and portable chargers must remain in carry‑on baggage and must be accessible for screening. Expect additional screening if the power bank does not display its rated watt‑hour or if it appears damaged. These rules can change with little notice when regulations evolve, so verify details close to your departure date.
Medical devices, mobility equipment, and exceptions
Passengers relying on mobility devices or portable medical equipment should contact Southwest well before travel to discuss options. Many battery‑powered wheelchairs and scooters use removable lithium batteries that are treated as spares and must be carried in accordance with the airline’s spare‑battery rules. In some cases, documentation from a healthcare provider can facilitate smoother handling. While Southwest aims to accommodate these needs, advance notice helps ensure the right procedures are followed and that battery handling aligns with both airline and TSA requirements.
What to do at the gate and during security
At check‑in and the gate, be prepared to show the battery or device if asked, especially for power banks and devices with non‑standard configurations. Security screeners may swab devices or test for residues; following packing best practices makes this process smoother. If a battery is swollen, leaking, or damaged, do not place it in baggage—notify airline staff immediately. Damaged or recalled batteries often trigger separate procedures, such as refusal of transport or mandatory inspection. When in doubt, ask an airline representative before boarding.
Why these rules matter and how they may evolve
Lithium battery incidents on aircraft, though rare, can escalate quickly due to the high energy density and pressurized cabin environment. Regulatory agencies and airlines update rules as new products emerge and as incident data informs best practices. Southwest’s current stance reflects standard U.S. guidance, but international travel can introduce additional restrictions depending on destination country rules. Staying informed through Southwest’s website, mobile app notifications, and airport announcements helps ensure compliance and supports safe operations for everyone.
Bottom line for passengers
For most travelers, Southwest’s lithium‑battery rules will not significantly change existing habits: keep laptops and power banks in your carry‑on, do not pack loose spare batteries in checked bags, and make sure each battery has protected terminals. If you use a wheelchair, scooter, or rely on medical devices, contact the airline ahead of time to confirm acceptable arrangements. Review these rules shortly before travel, because policies can be updated in response to new regulations or safety findings. By following these steps, you reduce risk, streamline screening, and avoid last‑minute surprises at the gate.