Check your luggage for this possible hidden fire threat
Flying soon? You might want to check these rules around checked luggage before you pack.
A recent survey revealed that many passengers are unaware that battery-powered devices cannot be packed in checked luggage on commercial flights.
READ: New ultra-luxury convenience store opening in South Africa
- This restriction exists because batteries pose a potential fire risk when stored in the cargo hold.
- While batteries have long been used in everyday travel items like mobile phones, laptops, and cameras, the rise of lithium-ion batteries has added a layer of complexity.
- These batteries, although safe when handled properly, can ignite if a short circuit occurs, leading to what experts call “thermal runaway.”
- This reaction can trigger large, difficult-to-control fires mid-flight.
READ: Eviction warning for South Africans living in complexes and sectional titles
What is being done to raise awareness?
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a global campaign titled Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries to educate passengers on the rules surrounding these devices.
The campaign follows an IATA passenger survey, which found that most travellers carry several battery-powered items: 83% travel with a mobile phone, 60% with a laptop, and 44% with a power bank.
READ: Travellers warned against criminals targeting Cape Town International Airport
According to MyBroadband, while 93% of respondents believed they knew the airline rules, several key misconceptions persisted.
Half of those surveyed thought small battery-powered devices could be placed in checked luggage, 45% believed it was fine to pack power banks there, and a third did not know that power banks and spare batteries have capacity limits.
READ: The best (and worst) international airports and airlines
A separate study by UL Standards and Engagement also found that one in four passengers admitted to placing battery-powered devices in their checked bags.
How are airlines addressing lithium battery fires?
There have been several incidents where lithium-ion batteries caught fire during international flights, prompting airlines to take stricter safety measures.
READ: Home affairs introduces doorstep passport delivery for South Africans abroad
Emirates, for instance, now prohibits passengers from charging or discharging power banks on board.
The airline stated that this decision followed a comprehensive safety review, as the rise in power bank usage has coincided with an increase in incidents related to lithium batteries.
READ: Qualify for a free temporary driving licence with these conditions
Other international carriers with similar restrictions include Singapore Airlines, KLM, China Airlines, Korean Air, and Cathay Pacific.
What are the South African airlines’ policies?
MyBroadband reached out to South African carriers for comment on their regulations regarding lithium batteries.
Airlink, FlySafair, and Lift confirmed that they comply with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, which are aligned with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Technical Instructions.
READ: Expert shares insight on possible social media ban in SA
FlySafair’s spokesperson, Kirby Gordon, explained that these regulations are “practical and sometimes conservative” in their application. The key rule is that battery-powered devices should always be kept in the cabin and not placed in checked baggage.
If a battery malfunctions in the cargo hold, the resulting fire can spread quickly through luggage.
To limit this risk, only batteries with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours (Wh) are permitted in carry-on bags without special approval.
READ: Two SA suburbs where CEOs, celebrities, and politicians are buying homes
Batteries with a capacity between 101Wh and 160Wh may be allowed with prior authorisation, typically for mobility aids or large power banks.
Can passengers use power banks during flights?
All three South African airlines still permit passengers to use power banks during flights, although there are restrictions.
READ: Legendary rockstar Freddie Mercury's R650-million home for sale
Charging or using such devices is not allowed during taxiing, take-off, or landing to avoid interference with the aircraft’s navigation and communication systems.
Lift also requires passengers to monitor their power banks closely to prevent overheating. Charging devices inside overhead compartments is prohibited, and crew members may ask passengers to disconnect any device that generates excessive heat or poses a risk.
READ: Internet calls new Tina Turner statue an "abomination"
None of the airlines has reported lithium battery fires to date. However, they remain prepared with fire containment pouches, and crew members are trained to manage battery-related incidents.
In the event of a fire or overheating, the standard procedure would involve diverting the aircraft.
What changes are coming to battery transport rules?
Gordon noted that the inclusion of sodium-ion batteries will soon be part of updated dangerous goods regulations.
Additionally, from January, all batteries stored in cargo holds must be at 30% charge or lower.
READ: Department of Transport announce plans for 300km/h train
While South African Airways and CemAir did not respond to MyBroadband’s queries, both have published details of their lithium-ion battery policies online, which align with IATA’s guidelines.
As lithium-powered devices continue to dominate modern travel, the aviation industry remains firm in enforcing strict safety standards to protect passengers and crew.
Tune in to 'The Drive with Rob & Roz', on weekdays from 16:00 – 19:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Follow us on social media:
Image: iStock