Airlines Banning Robots

Friendly Humanoid While being operated remotely, Fauna Robotics' new robot named Sprout shows off its dexterity in New York, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) (Seth Wenig/AP)

Southwest Airlines have banned robots from the cabin and checked luggage due to safety risks. The airline said the concern is lithium-ion batteries, which have been linked to fires.

The restriction will apply to robots of any size or regardless of what their purpose is.

The airline did say smaller robotic toys are allowed in carry-on bags as long as they comply with existing battery restrictions.

More airlines are expected to follow suit.

Nikki

Nikki

If you know me even just a little bit, you know I follow the music…sing it, dance to it and play it on the radio. I hope the music we play makes your workday, or beach day, go by easy breezy.

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