Southwest to restrict smart bags with non-removable lithium batteries

Southwest Airlines is joining the movement to restrict smart bags with non-removable lithium batteries, following similar guidelines announced by Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines in early December. Effective Jan 15, 2018, Southwest will no longer accept smart bags if the lithium battery cannot be removed, according to new rules released by the carrier Dec 15. Southwest will allow smart bags with a removable lithium battery to be transported into the cabin as carry-on baggage, and the battery may remain installed. “[But] if checking a smart bag is required at any time for any reason, the customer will need to remove the battery,” Southwest said. The customer would then have to keep the battery on their person, or in carry-on baggage, in the main passenger cabin. <br/>