Asiana Airlines to Dispose of Fire-Risk Items Found During Travel from 2026

Asiana Airlines has announced changes to how certain lost items will be handled across its operations. Starting on 1 January 2026, items considered to pose a risk of fire or explosion will be disposed of immediately if found on board aircraft, at check-in counters, or inside airport lounges. The airline confirmed that the update applies to items recovered during both flight operations and ground services.

The policy is linked to safety concerns around lithium-powered devices and heat-generating equipment. Asiana said the affected items will no longer be stored, logged, or returned through lost-and-found services once identified. The rule applies regardless of where the item is found within the airline’s facilities, including seating areas, boarding gates, and lounge spaces used by departing or connecting passengers.

Asiana clarified that the disposal process will begin immediately after such items are retrieved. The airline has not indicated any exceptions or grace periods once the policy takes effect in 2026. Passengers are advised to rely on existing safety guidance regarding battery-powered devices, particularly when carrying spare batteries or electronic items with built-in lithium cells.

Items subject to immediate disposal

• Spare lithium batteries
• Electronic cigarettes
• Wireless high-temperature electronic devices
• Cordless hair styling tools with built-in lithium batteries

The change may influence how travellers organise and monitor personal belongings during their journey. Items left behind in seats, security trays, or charging areas will not be recoverable once collected by staff. These places added importance to checking personal devices before leaving aircraft cabins, airport counters, or lounge areas, especially during busy travel periods.

The change follows increased concern around battery-related incidents in air travel. The rules on what passengers may carry on board stay the same, but the way forgotten items are handled will change. Devices left behind on aircraft or in airport facilities will no longer be returned. This means travellers flying with Asiana Airlines in 2026 will need to pay closer attention to personal electronics before leaving their seat or the terminal.