Flying on Southwest Airlines Is About to Get MORE Complicated

Flying Southwest in 2026 is going to feel completely different from flying in 2025!

On September 25th, 2025, Southwest implemented new safety requirements for carrying lithium-powered mobility devices. This included devices like powered wheelchairs and scooters. Now, Southwest will be doubling down on the lithium battery restriction with a new rule.

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Late last year, the airline announced there would be new size limits that apply to all lithium batteries. Starting on January 11th, 2026, customers will be limited to 300 watt-hours or less.

When the first lithium battery rule was put in place last year, customers were required to take out all removable lithium batteries from their mobility devices and carry them onto the plane.

During the implementation of the new policy last year, Dave Hunt, the company’s vice president of safety and security, stated, “Lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke and fire incidents on aircraft. By taking proactive steps now, Southwest will be among the first U.S. carriers to adopt these higher standards.”

On top of that, there are a few more changes coming to Southwest in 2026, and you’re going to need to be ready for them.

Southwest’s long-time open seating policy is coming to an end, as the airline is moving to assigned seating beginning on January 27th, 2026. Also, the airline’s “bags fly free” policy is gone. This was another one of the airline’s long-standing policies, which allowed all customers to check two bags for free. This will be the first full year without it.

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When Does the New Southwest Airlines Boarding Process Start?

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