FAA's New Guidelines: Vaping Devices Must Fly with You

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an important reminder to all airline passengers regarding the transportation of electronic smoking devices, such as vaporizers (vapes) and e-cigarettes, on aircraft. These items, due to their lithium battery components, are now considered hazardous and are prohibited in checked luggage for safety reasons.

According to the FAA, passengers are permitted to carry such devices on board, but they must be properly secured in carry-on baggage to mitigate fire risks. Specifically, vapes, e-cigarettes, and spare lithium batteries must be carried in carry-on luggage only. To prevent accidental activation or short circuits, these devices should be placed in protective cases or the batteries should be removed and each stored in individual cases or plastic bags.

This directive aligns with existing regulations that ban the use of traditional cigarettes on flights. Similarly, passengers are reminded that the use of vapes or e-cigarettes on aircraft is not only unsafe but also a federal offense. The FAA's stance on this matter reflects a broader concern over the fire hazards posed by lithium batteries in electronic smoking devices, which were identified as the leading cause of lithium battery incidents on aircraft in 2022.

To further promote awareness and compliance with these new guidelines, the FAA is encouraging manufacturers, retailers, and consumers of vaping products to engage with a newly launched Vapes On A Plane Marketing Kit. This initiative aims to disseminate critical safety information to ensure that both airline passengers and the broader vaping community are well-informed about the correct way to travel with these devices.

Manufacturers, retailers, and consumers are all being called upon to play a role in spreading the word about safe travel practices with vaping products. By adhering to these guidelines, passengers can contribute to a safer flying environment for everyone on board.