Southwest Airlines Battery Pack Policy Overview
Southwest Airlines follows FAA and DOT rules for lithium batteries and battery packs. The airline allows passengers to carry personal battery packs and portable chargers in carry-on luggage only. Spare lithium-ion batteries and power banks must be protected from damage and short circuits. Southwest prohibits battery packs in checked bags unless they meet specific safety exceptions for installed batteries in medical devices or consumer electronics. The policy aligns with IATA guidelines and TSA security screening requirements for in-cabin battery storage.
Battery packs must be rated at or below 100 watt-hours for carry-on without airline approval. Devices with batteries between 100 and 160 watt-hours require Southwest or the manufacturer's approval before travel. Passengers may carry up to two spare larger batteries with prior authorization. The airline does not publish a fixed number of battery packs per passenger, but limits are based on watt-hour ratings and safety compliance. Southwest advises travelers to check battery labels for watt-hour markings and to contact customer service for unclear or damaged battery packs.
Lithium Battery Rules and Watt-Hour Limits
Lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries are subject to strict watt-hour and gram limits under Southwest policy. Lithium-ion battery packs under 100 watt-hours are permitted in carry-on bags and installed in personal devices such as phones, tablets, and laptops. Lithium-metal batteries are limited to two grams of lithium per battery for personal use. Southwest requires that battery packs be switched off during flight and protected with insulated covers or original packaging to prevent accidental activation.
High-capacity battery packs above 100 watt-hours must be approved by Southwest before boarding. Approval is typically granted for professional equipment, medical devices, or mobility aids. The airline may request proof of watt-hour rating from the manufacturer or product specification sheet. Southwest also enforces TSA restrictions on power banks, requiring them to be packed in carry-on luggage and not used during taxi, takeoff, or landing. These rules match federal aviation safety standards for in-cabin battery transport.
Prohibited Devices and Enforcement Procedures
Southwest prohibits battery packs that are damaged, recalled, or leaking. Devices with swollen or visibly damaged battery casings are not allowed on board. The airline may confiscate non-compliant battery packs at the gate or during security screening. Southwest crew members are trained to identify and handle battery-related incidents in accordance with FAA emergency response guidance. Passengers who refuse to surrender prohibited battery packs may be denied boarding.
Southwest uses TSA screening equipment and manual inspections to enforce battery pack rules. Travelers are encouraged to declare larger battery packs at check-in or at the security checkpoint. Southwest may refer repeat violations to TSA for enforcement action. The airline also provides in-flight safety briefings that include battery safety reminders. For the latest updates, travelers should review Southwest's official conditions of carriage and the FAA battery guidance on the Southwest website.