Southwest Airlines bans robots after man brought them on board

Washington—— Southwest Airlines Passengers will no longer be allowed to bring humanoid or animal-like robots on board flights or as checked baggage.

this The airline updated its policy A man brought his humanoid robot named “Stewie” on a plane and bought him a flight from Las Vegas to Dallas, Texas.

Southwest Airlines cited lithium-ion batteries used in robots in its updated policy. This type of battery is also common in portable chargers and power banks and has caused aircraft fires.

“Southwest Airlines does not permit humanoid or animal-like robots to be transported in the cabin or as checked baggage, regardless of their size or purpose,” Southwest Airlines says in new policy. “‘Humanoid robot’ refers to a robot that imitates or imitates humans in appearance, movement, or behavior. ‘Animal-like robot’ is a robot that imitates or imitates animals in appearance, movement, or behavior.”

“All other robots, including toys, must be able to fit into a carry-on-sized bag and comply with existing battery restrictions,” it added.

“Stewie” went viral after boarding a Southwest Airlines flight, attracting the attention of passengers and crew. Humanoid robot is robotics studio, A Dallas-based company that rents robots for weddings, conferences and other events.

A Southwest spokesperson told CNN that the new policy is not specific to any single incident. It officially came into effect last week.

There have been several recent incidents involving humanoid robots on flights.

In another case, not involving “Stewie,” a Southwest Airlines flight from Oakland, California, was delayed by a robot.

CNN Newsource contributed to this report.