Take batteries, power banks with you into cabin, CASA says

Batteries, power banks, vapes and e-cigarettes need to be kept in in the cabin with your, air passengers have been reminded.

The reminder from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is at the heart of its Pack Right, Safe Flight campaign.

The authority has a Pack Right, Safe Flight website that travellers can visit before they leave for the airport to learn what can, and can’t, be packed.

Lithium-ion batteries top the list of the most common items; the agency says most travellers now carry at least four rechargeable (lithium-powered) devices onto planes.

“Devices like phones, laptops, vapes and power banks are things we regularly travel with but when they’re packed incorrectly, they can pose a serious fire risk,” CASA’s CEO and Director of Aviation Safety Pip Spence says.

‘DON’T PACK BATTERIES’

“Spare lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, vapes and power banks must never be packed in checked baggage. They should always be carried in the cabin, where cabin crew are trained to respond to any incidents.

“Electrical devices that need to be plugged into mains power are OK to include in your checked baggage,” she explains.

“You can search our website for these and other commonly packed items – including aerosols, sparklers, and cleaning products – to find out whether they can be carried at all, where they should be packed, and what conditions apply.”

CASA says that a failure to declare dangerous goods when checking in, whether online or at the airport, is a serious offence which can result in strong penalties.

“Above all else, remember the season of good will applies to everyone,” Spence says. “So if you’re travelling, please treat your fellow passengers and airline staff with respect.

“When the crew ask you to do things it’s to keep you safe, so please follow their instructions.”

CASA says it will keep inspecting airlines and other operations over the holidays to ensure safety compliance.