The new campaign is aimed at air travellers carrying batteries and power banks with them. Photo: CASA
With airline passengers carrying up to four lithium battery devices on average, a new air safety campaign has been launched in time for the school and Easter holidays.
The campaign’s goal is to educate passengers about what they can and can’t pack in carry-on and/or checked-in luggage.
It has been organised by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) as school holidays start in some states and with the Easter-Anzac Day holiday period looming.
CASA CEO and Director of Aviation Safety Pip Spence says passengers must follow the rules when it comes to packing bags.
“Sometimes, power banks and spare batteries can short circuit and catch fire,” she says.
“Carrying them with you in the cabin means that trained aircrew can handle any issue quickly and safely,” she explains.
But some portable power sources are not allowed to be carried on. Passengers can check the packing rules for specific items by visiting casa.gov.au/packright.
ASSOCIATION WELCOMES CAMPAIGN
Airlines for Australia and New Zealand (A4ANZ) Chief Executive Officer Emma Wilson says airlines welcome the new campaign.
“Many passengers aren’t aware that common household items like power banks, vapes and aerosols, are dangerous goods and that there may be restrictions on how they are packed and carried on board,” Wilson says.
“Airlines are pleased to get behind this initiative and support its roll out.”
“We also encourage you to respect your crew and listen to their instructions at all times – they are there to keep you safe,” Spence said.
“Travelling can be stressful in peak periods but this is no excuse for disruptive or unruly behaviour. We urge everyone to treat their fellow passengers with courtesy.”
CASA says it will check, inspect and audit airlines and other aircraft operators to ensure safety compliance.
Penalties for those who break air safety rules can include fines of more than $15,000 or imprisonment.
