Southwest Airlines once had a solid reputation for separating itself from other airlines with flyer-friendly policies like free checked bags. However, the airline has made a number of recent changes that many believe have undermined that reputation.

Now, the airline is making another new rule that could make life harder for certain passengers. And sadly, this new rule targets a group of flyers that already face significant challenges.

Southwest Airlines’ new rule is not the only change that will affect wheelchair users. The airline is also going to limit the size of the batteries powering mobility devices.

Effective January 11, 2026, Southwest will require that each battery be 300 watt-hours or less. After that date, larger batteries will not be permitted on board.

The Federal Aviation Administration also has a 300-watt-hour limit for batteries, but allows passengers to carry on either one spare battery that has a maximum of 300 watt hours or two spares with 160-watt-hour maximums each.

Why is Southwest Airlines making this change?

Southwest Airlines is updating its policy as a result of safety concerns.

Southwest Vice President of Safety and Security Dave Hunt provided an explanation in a letter to employees, starting:

Lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke and fire incidents on aircraft. 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.

Some travelers may no longer be able to fly Southwest Airlines.

Image source: Paul Hennessy/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

How many passengers will be impacted by Southwest’s new policy?

Very few Southwest Airlines passengers are going to be adversely affected by the change in the rule regarding wheelchair batteries, according to Hunt.

Hunt said only around 0.1% of Southwest customers will be impacted and will have to create a plan for battery removal while at the airport.

Customers who purchase tickets for flights after the September or January dates will be notified of the change starting in mid-September and will receive specific additional details relevant to their travel needs.

Customers express concern about how disabled Southwest Airlines travelers will be impacted

Southwest Airlines has explained that this decision is made in the interest of safety, as lithium-ion batteries have become a concern due to potential risks of in-air fires.

However, some passengers are concerned about the potential effect of this change on disabled travelers. 

When People reported on the change, multiple top comments highlighted the serious disadvantages for travelers with disabilities. 

  • U.S. government issues serious warning for cruise passengers
  • Delta Air Lines makes a baggage change that travelers will like
  • United Airlines passenger incident triggers quick response

More on travel: One commenter, Avery, said: Air travel gets less and less accessible…How is someone like my mama, who’s had FOUR back surgeries and just had shoulder surgery, supposed to carry a heavy battery onto a plane by herself? She can’t, and I can’t help her either, I have two herniated discs myself! Are we just not allowed to fly alone anymore? It’s ridiculous!

Others asked how people who rely on powered wheelchairs are supposed to board planes without the battery, while a third commenter warned:

They are effectively canceling solo travel by people who rely on mobility chairs as their legs.

Still, Southwest Airlines has stuck by other changes it made that proved unpopular, and since this is a safety issue, the carrier is unlikely to backtrack on this particular new rule.

(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a trip.)

Please make a free appointment with TheStreet’s Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.