why can’t I check My electronics when I fly?

It’s to prevent the growing number of incidents of smoke, fire, or extreme heat which can’t be properly detected and monitored.

A lithium ion battery in your smartphone or laptop can create a risk on an airplane. Batteries are “Dangerous Goods”, especially when they develop heat, bulge, or get crushed which may result in thermal runaway. Due to a 388% increase of fires on US flights, in 2023, the US FAA prohibited lithium ion batteries from being transported as cargo on passenger aircraft.

The Underwriters Laboratory (UL) reports that the average passenger brings four (4) rechargeable devices onboard. Many consumer electronic devices with lithium ion batteries include; Cell phones, Tablets, Laptops, Battery Packs, eCigarrette’s, Vape’s, Cameras, Smartwatches, E-readers, Fitness trackers, Power tools, toys, medical devices and appliances. As a passenger, remember not to bring damaged consumer electronic products, and PackSafe while flying.

With the rapid growth in global demand for battery-powered products across borders, air cargo has become a vital e-commerce revenue source to industry, where 80% of business-to-consumer shipments are carried by air and according to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and McKinsey. Commercially, lithium ion batteries packaged, transported and stored as hazardous materials. Beginning in 2026, when organizations ship batteries as cargo, they generally must do so at a state of charge of 30% or less when not packed with equipment. The International Air Transportation Authority (IATA) advocates preparation as a key component in understanding the Regulations.

To learn more about safe handling of lithium ion batteries, contact us for more information.