A recent Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) released by the FAA expresses concern over passengers carrying e-cigarettes in their checked luggage. They caution that the devices could pose a fire hazard when stored in the cargo area. The FAA has released this statement after the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) issued a warning—along with examples of incidents that have resulted in fire—recommending that airlines ban passengers from storing e-cigarettes in their checked luggage, and that passengers pack them in carry-on luggage instead.
According to the ICAO report, there are a number of instances where an e-cigarette has malfunctioned due to overheating and/or where the device has accidently turned on while inside a suitcase. For instance, in one case, an e-cigarette in a suitcase was responsible for starting a fire that resulted in the plane being evacuated.
The report suggests that the risk of such fires increases when vapers modify their e-cigarettes and when they use inferior batteries and other heating components.
If you are going to travel with your e-cigarette, the best way to ensure that there are no incidents is to pack your e-cigarette in carry-on luggage only. For added safety, you could also pack your components separately—that way your e-cigarette battery won’t accidently turn on.
The next time you fly, don’t be surprised if you’re informed of this new policy when you purchase your ticket(s) or when you show up for your flight. For more information about traveling with your e-cigarette, read E-Cigarettes and Traveling.