For all US flights, America's security agency bans 7 items from checked luggage

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has announced a ban on seven specific lithium battery-powered items from all checked luggage on U.S. flights. This policy update is part of a broader safety push to prevent in-flight fires, following a series of battery-related incidents on commercial aircraft.

Banned Items Include Portable Chargers and Spare Batteries
Effective immediately, portable chargers and power banks, along with other lithium battery-related items, are not allowed in checked bags. These devices must now be stored in carry-on luggage only. The ban includes:

• Power banks
• Cellphone battery charging cases
• Spare lithium-ion batteries
• Spare lithium-metal batteries
• Cellphone batteries
• Laptop batteries
• External battery packs and portable rechargers

These items typically contain lithium-ion or lithium-metal batteries, which are known to pose fire hazards under certain conditions.

Why Lithium Batteries Are a Concern
According to FAA guidance, lithium batteries can overheat and trigger a dangerous chemical reaction called “thermal runaway.” This reaction can occur suddenly due to several factors such as physical damage, exposure to heat or water, overcharging, poor packing, or internal manufacturing flaws. The FAA has warned that thermal runaway may spread quickly to nearby batteries, creating an uncontrollable fire risk, particularly in a plane’s cargo hold.

The FAA stated, “When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or at planeside, all spare lithium batteries and power banks must be removed from the bag and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin. The battery terminals must be protected from short circuit.”

The decision to enforce these rules follows multiple battery-related incidents aboard commercial aircraft. In January 2025, a fire caused by a power bank on Air Busan Flight 391 injured seven passengers. In another case, a Southwest flight in November 2024 had to be evacuated after a passenger’s cellphone caught fire mid-flight. Such incidents have underscored the importance of storing high-risk devices where trained cabin crew can respond immediately.

Guidelines for Safe Battery Transport

• To comply with the updated regulations, passengers are advised to:
• Keep all spare lithium batteries in carry-on bags
• Protect battery terminals using retail packaging, tape, or battery cases
• Ensure batteries are undamaged and not leaking

Carry no more than two spare batteries rated between 101 to 160 watt-hours (Wh), typically used in extended-life laptop batteries or professional equipment

The size limits for most batteries are 2 grams of lithium for non-rechargeable (metal) batteries and 100 Wh for rechargeable (ion) batteries. Anything beyond that requires airline approval and must still be for personal use—not for resale.

Other TSA Changes for 2025 Travelers
In addition to these battery restrictions, travelers should be aware of broader security updates. As of May 7, 2025, all passengers flying domestically must present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved federal identification document, such as a passport. This requirement is part of national security enhancements recommended by the 9/11 Commission.

The TSA has also revised its prohibited items list, which now includes specific tools, sharp objects, and certain liquid quantities, as part of an effort to tighten airport security protocols.

Final Tips for Travelers
Before heading to the airport, passengers should:

• Double-check that no banned battery-powered items are packed in checked luggage
• Ensure all batteries are undamaged and properly stored
• Stay updated with TSA and FAA regulations through their official websites

These new rules aim to protect passengers and crews by reducing the risk of fires during flights. Keeping lithium-powered items in the cabin allows for faster response in case of emergency, ensuring safer air travel for everyone.