Humanoid Robots and Robot Pets Are No Longer Welcome on Southwest Flights
Humanoid robots are working in warehouses, undergoing tests for package delivery and folding laundry, but they can't fly domestic, at least not on Southwest Airlines. The airline has a new policy that went into effect on May 15, banning humanoid robots and "animal-like robots" from being transported in airplane cabins or as checked baggage, regardless of size or purpose.
The airline does make an exception for other robots that don't fall into those categories, but they must fit within a carry-on-size bag and comply with existing battery restrictions.
The airline's restrictions on mobile power banks, which use the same kind of battery tech found in these robots, limit them to 100 watt-hours, according to the airline's website. As of April 20, fliers can only bring one power bank per customer. Southwest began cracking down on batteries last year due to their potential to combust. Passengers aren't...
Copyright of this story solely belongs to cnet.com. To see the full text click HERE
