As the busy summer travel season approaches, passengers are being reminded of a crucial rule that could cost them dearly: vaping on an airplane is a federal offense. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued strong warnings that travelers caught vaping or smoking on planes could face fines of up to $4,000. In some cases, violators could even be arrested or imprisoned.

With vaping becoming an increasingly popular alternative to smoking, passengers may not be fully aware of the strict rules that govern e-cigarettes and vaping devices on airplanes. According to Haypp, a UK-based organization dedicated to promoting smoke-free alternatives, there has been a sharp increase in online searches related to vaping and air travel, with inquiries such as “How many vapes can I take on a plane?” increasing by 2,900% and “Can you put disposable vapes in your suitcase?” almost tripling.

What You Need to Know About Traveling with Vapes

While passengers are allowed to bring vaping devices on flights, there are important guidelines to follow. The device must be completely powered off, and it should be packed in your hand luggage, not checked luggage. Vapes are classified as Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) by the FAA, just like laptops and power banks, due to the fire risks posed by their lithium batteries.

One of the most serious violations is attempting to vape during a flight. The FAA treats vaping the same as smoking, and anyone caught using an e-cigarette on a plane can face the aforementioned $4,000 fine. In extreme cases, passengers may be arrested or subjected to imprisonment, making it crucial to adhere to these rules.

What to Pack and How to Prepare

To avoid trouble, passengers should ensure their vape juice is stored in a clear plastic bag and placed in hand luggage, as it is classified as a liquid. The bag should meet the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) 3-1-1 liquid rule, which limits the amount of liquid to 3.4 ounces per container and requires it to be placed in a quart-sized clear bag.

Additionally, any vaping device containing a lithium battery must be packed in carry-on luggage and placed in a sealed bag to prevent fire hazards. It is also advisable to check with your airline about their specific policies for traveling with vapes, as some airlines impose additional restrictions on how many vapes can be carried.

Be Aware of International Vaping Bans

Travelers should also be aware of the laws regarding e-cigarettes in the countries they are visiting. Some nations have outright banned the sale, distribution, and use of e-cigarettes, including countries like Argentina, Brazil, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Jordan, Mexico, and Nicaragua. Violating these local laws can result in hefty fines or even legal action.

Health Risks of Vaping

While vaping has been marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, recent studies suggest that e-cigarettes may carry similar health risks. Last year, researchers pointed out that vaping could potentially lead to cancer in a manner similar to traditional tobacco smoking. As a result, while vaping may help some smokers quit, it is not without its own set of health concerns.

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