Dangerous goods when flying: Everyday electronic devices can present safety risks during air transport. That’s why specific items are restricted to hand luggage, permitted for use under certain in-flight conditions, or may be entirely prohibited.
Dangerous goods when flying : Guidelines for Carrying Electronic Devices and Dangerous Goods
Keep in mind that ensuring safety is a collective responsibility, and as a passenger, you play a crucial role. Hence, it is imperative that you attentively review the airline’s provided information on dangerous goods before your flight.
Airplane mode: on
Typically, nowadays, we have the flexibility to use laptops, smartphones, e-readers, tablets, and similar devices for a significant duration of the flight, with exceptions during specific phases like takeoff and landing. Nevertheless, it’s important to bear in mind that portable electronic devices have the potential to interfere with aircraft equipment, and this varies between different aircraft types. As a precaution, airlines generally mandate the use of « airplane mode » for such devices at all times.
Dangerous goods when flying : Lithium batteries
Lithium batteries are integral components in many of our daily-use items, including mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and cameras, as they rely on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. When these batteries are damaged, experience a short circuit, or overheat, there is a risk of fire. For this reason, it is advisable to stow portable electronic devices (PEDs) such as cameras, laptops, and phones in your carry-on baggage rather than in checked baggage.
Spare batteries and power banks must always be carried in your carry-on baggage and never in checked luggage. They should be individually protected to prevent short-circuits, and a maximum of two per person is allowed. Recharging them on board the aircraft is not permitted.
If it is absolutely necessary to place electronic devices in checked baggage, they must be completely powered off and shielded from accidental activation. Some airlines may prohibit such items altogether in checked baggage.
Regardless of whether in carry-on or checked baggage, the battery should not exceed a specified watt-hour (Wh) limit. Additionally, it is crucial to purchase batteries from original and reputable retailers, avoiding unreliable sources, to ensure proper testing and safety.
Use of « smart » luggage
Much like numerous items in our day-to-day existence, ranging from phones to toasters, luggage has also embraced « smart » features in recent years. Smart luggage typically incorporates lithium batteries, and as such, specific regulations come into play. The batteries should not surpass a maximum lithium content of 0.3 grams or 2.7 Wh. Should the batteries exceed this limit, you have two alternatives: either carry the bag into the cabin as part of your carry-on luggage, or if that is not feasible, remove the batteries and transport them in the cabin under the same conditions that apply to spare batteries and power banks.
Watch out for malfunctioning warning signs
If a battery exhibits swelling, excessive heat, or emits smoke, these are evident indications of a problem. Should you observe any unusual behavior from your battery while on a flight or within the airport, it is imperative to promptly notify either a cabin crew member or a staff member at the airport.
Damaged, Defective or Recalled Lithium Batteries
Lithium-ion cells and batteries labeled by the manufacturer as defective for safety reasons, or those that have incurred damage and pose a risk of generating hazardous heat, fire, or a short circuit (such as those being returned to the manufacturer for safety concerns), can pose a significant danger. Passengers are strongly advised against carrying such items.
Dangerous goods when flying : E-cigarettes
E-cigarettes, or electronic cigarettes, must be consistently stored in your carry-on baggage. Additionally, it is strictly prohibited to recharge them while on board the aircraft.
Leisure transportation devices
Typically, recreational transport devices powered by lithium batteries, such as hoverboards, electronic skateboards, and self-balancing devices, are prohibited in both checked baggage and the cabin if their batteries have a rating of 100 Wh or more. It is advisable to avoid bringing these items when flying for safety reasons.
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