US airline bans humanoid robots after flight disruptions

The Dallas-based airline updated its travel policy last week to prohibit passengers from bringing humanoid or animal-like robots onto flights, either in the cabin or as checked baggage, regardless of size or purpose, according to USA Today.

The airline said other robots, including toys, are still permitted if they fit inside a carry-on bag and comply with battery restrictions.

The policy came days after a viral incident involving a humanoid robot named Stewie, which traveled on a May 10 Southwest flight from Las Vegas to Dallas. Tech entrepreneur Aaron Mehdizadeh bought the 3.5-foot robot its own seat instead of checking it as cargo, according to CBS News Texas.

To comply with airport security requirements, the robot was fitted with a smaller battery before boarding. Stewie later walked through the airport and onto the plane, drawing attention from passengers and crew members.

 

 

US airline bans humanoid robots after flight disruptions

US airline bans humanoid robots after flight disruptions

Airline employees were initially unsure how to handle the robot because it counted as a carry-on item and could not remain in a passenger seat during the flight. Crew members eventually moved it to a window seat and removed its battery before departure. "Most people were very excited to see a robot flying and (it) provided so much entertainment," Mehdizadeh said.

Days earlier, another humanoid robot caused an hour-long delay on a Southwest flight from Oakland to San Diego after crew members had to reseat the robot and remove its oversized lithium batteries.

Southwest told CNN the updated policy was introduced over safety concerns involving lithium batteries and was not prompted by any single incident.

Mehdizadeh disputed that explanation, telling CBS News Texas that Stewie’s battery was comparable to one used in a laptop. "It’s not a battery policy because the battery we used is essentially a laptop battery."

Despite the ban, Mehdizadeh said he hopes the airline will eventually allow humanoid robots on board if they meet safety requirements.