In a major move to bolster air travel safety, US travel authorities have enforced a ban on all lithium battery-powered items in checked luggage. This new regulation, aimed at reducing the risk of in-flight fires caused by battery malfunctions, requires passengers to pack these devices in their carry-on bags instead. The decision follows a series of alarming incidents involving lithium batteries overheating and triggering dangerous fires, highlighting the need for stricter security measures. By implementing this ban, US travel authorities are taking proactive steps to protect both passengers and crew from potential hazards while ensuring a safer flying experience overall.

To enhance air travel safety and mitigate the risk of in-flight fires, US authorities have enacted a new regulation banning certain lithium battery-powered items from checked baggage. In collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented this rule to prevent potential hazards posed by battery malfunctions during flights. Starting now, passengers are required to pack all lithium battery-operated devices in their carry-on bags, ensuring they are kept in locations where in-flight staff can monitor and respond to emergencies quickly.

The decision to ban lithium battery-powered items from checked luggage comes as part of an ongoing effort to reduce the risk of fire-related accidents. Lithium batteries, while common in consumer electronics, can pose significant dangers when improperly handled or when their internal components malfunction. As a result, the new policy is aimed at limiting the chances of these devices overheating or igniting in cargo holds where they are more difficult to control. The FAA has emphasized the importance of storing lithium battery-powered items in carry-on luggage where they can be immediately addressed in the event of a malfunction.

This regulation specifically targets seven types of items commonly found in checked bags, all of which are powered by lithium-based batteries. The items now prohibited from checked baggage on flights to and from the US include:

• Power banks
• Charging cases for mobile phones
• Spare lithium-ion batteries
• Spare lithium-metal batteries
• Mobile phone batteries
• Laptop batteries
• External battery packs and portable chargers

These items, while essential for many travelers, present a significant fire risk if mishandled. FAA guidelines indicate that lithium batteries can overheat and potentially trigger a process known as “thermal runaway,” where a chemical reaction occurs inside the battery, causing it to catch fire. This dangerous reaction can be triggered by a variety of factors, including physical damage, exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture, overcharging, improper packaging, or even manufacturing defects. Once thermal runaway begins, it can spread rapidly, igniting nearby batteries and creating an uncontrollable fire hazard.

The risk of thermal runaway in a confined space, such as the cargo hold of an aircraft, poses an even greater threat. The FAA has warned that if one battery malfunctions, it could cause a chain reaction that may set off fires in other nearby batteries. This situation could quickly escalate and threaten the safety of the entire aircraft and its passengers. In response to these concerns, the TSA and FAA have decided to implement this precautionary measure, ensuring that high-risk items are no longer placed in areas of the plane where they can go unnoticed or be difficult to access in the event of an emergency.

The new regulation comes after several alarming incidents involving lithium battery-related fires in flight. One of the most notable occurred in January 2025 when a power bank on Air Busan Flight 391 ignited during the flight, injuring seven passengers. Another significant event took place in November 2024, when a Southwest Airlines flight had to be evacuated after a passenger’s iPhone caught fire midair. These incidents highlighted the dangers posed by lithium batteries and reinforced the need for enhanced safety measures to protect passengers and crew from the risks associated with these devices.

The banning of lithium battery-powered items from checked luggage is a direct response to these incidents, with the aim of reducing the likelihood of similar occurrences in the future. The rule aims to ensure that any dangerous situations involving lithium batteries can be addressed immediately by trained flight attendants. By keeping these items in the cabin, flight crews are better able to respond to potential fires quickly, preventing them from spreading and jeopardizing the safety of everyone onboard.

While the ban may inconvenience some travelers, it is an important step toward reducing the risks posed by lithium batteries, which have become ubiquitous in everyday devices. The FAA and TSA hope that by keeping these items in carry-on luggage, they will be able to better manage potential fire hazards and ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members on board.

This regulatory change aligns with a broader global effort to enhance aviation safety in light of technological advancements and the growing presence of electronic devices on flights. As more devices rely on lithium batteries for power, it is essential that air travel authorities continue to monitor and adapt to emerging risks. Passengers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new guidelines and pack accordingly to avoid any delays or disruptions at the airport.

The decision to prohibit lithium battery-powered devices from checked baggage is not only a precautionary measure but also a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of aviation safety. As technology continues to advance, the need for vigilant and proactive measures to address new risks has never been more critical. By taking these steps now, the FAA and TSA are helping to safeguard air travel for the future, ensuring that passengers can fly with greater confidence and security.

US travel authorities have implemented a ban on all lithium battery-powered items in checked luggage to enhance flight safety and reduce the risk of in-flight fires caused by battery malfunctions. This regulation mandates that such items be stored in carry-on bags instead.

The ban on lithium battery-powered items in checked luggage reflects the growing awareness of the potential risks posed by these devices. While the regulation may initially cause some inconvenience, it is ultimately designed to protect both passengers and crew from the dangers associated with lithium battery malfunctions. By requiring these items to be placed in carry-on luggage, airlines can better manage potential fire hazards, providing a safer environment for everyone onboard. With these measures in place, travelers can rest assured that the aviation industry is taking every step to prioritize their safety in an increasingly tech-driven world.

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