The UK Civil Aviation Authority has issued a crucial advisory for passengers as the busiest flying day of the year approaches, warning that improperly packed lithium batteries could lead to significant flight delays. With over 550,000 people expected to travel by air on 24 July, the regulator highlights the risks posed by devices such as power banks and vapes, which should be carried in hand luggage rather than checked baggage.
The aviation regulator anticipates 30 million passengers will depart the UK in July and August, each carrying an average of four lithium-powered devices. This equates to millions of rechargeable gadgets in the skies daily. Incorrectly packed items can cause delays, cancellations, or even in-flight fires, necessitating rerouting or evacuation.
Giancarlo Buono, Director of Aviation Safety at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, emphasised the importance of correct packing: “Power banks, vapes and spare lithium batteries should always be carried in the cabin, not packed in checked baggage. Pack right for a safe flight and help reduce the risk of delays, diversions and safety risks this summer.”
To assist passengers, the Civil Aviation Authority has released a ‘hot list’ of items to be mindful of, including power banks, vapes, Bluetooth speakers, and laptops. Giuseppe Capanna from Electrical Safety First advises checking devices for damage before travel and purchasing from reputable retailers to ensure safety.
Passengers are reminded of specific rules, such as a limit of two power banks per person, and are encouraged to verify airline-specific restrictions. Awareness remains low, with over a third of travellers unaware of the potential dangers
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