IATA launches global campaign to improve passenger safety when flying with lithium batteries

XIAMEN – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a new global safety initiative titled “Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries”, aimed at informing airline passengers about how to safely pack and carry devices powered by lithium batteries when flying. The multilingual campaign will run across IATA’s website and social media channels and will be distributed to airlines, airports, and travel partners as white-label educational material.

Lithium batteries are widely used in mobile phones, laptops, cameras, vapes, tablets, drones and power banks. While generally safe, they can pose a fire risk if damaged, improperly packed, or exposed to short-circuits.

“Lithium-powered devices are safe when handled properly, but they can pose a risk if damaged or packed incorrectly. As more travelers fly with these devices, our Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries campaign will help airlines educate their passengers on the simple rules they must keep in mind when traveling with the electronic devices that have become an essential part of their daily lives,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Operations, Safety and Security.

Also read → Mark Searle (IATA) at WSOC 2025: Leadership, standards, and data key to aviation safety

Passenger confusion over safety rules

According to an IATA passenger survey, travelers continue to carry more electronic devices:

• 83% travel with a mobile phone
• 60% carry a laptop
• 44% carry a power bank

However, despite 93% of respondents believing they know the rules, significant misconceptions persist:

• 50% think small lithium devices can go in checked luggage
• 45% believe power banks can be checked in
• 33% are unaware that power banks have watt-hour limits

Seven key safety rules for passengers

The campaign emphasizes seven simple rules to prevent lithium battery-related incidents on board:

1. Pack only what you need – avoid carrying unnecessary batteries or devices.
2. Report damaged devices – notify crew if a device overheats or smokes.
3. Keep devices in cabin bags – do not place them in checked baggage.
4. Protect spare batteries – cover terminals or use original packaging.
5. Remove batteries before gate-checking bags – take them out if your cabin bag goes to the hold.
6. Check battery size – batteries over 100Wh may require airline approval.
7. Follow airline guidelines – rules may vary by carrier and local regulations.

IATA is distributing the campaign globally, enabling airlines and airports to incorporate safety messages into pre-flight communications, social media, booking confirmations and onboard safety materials. A short animated video supports the campaign, simplifying instructions for passengers.

The initiative supports ongoing industry efforts to minimise lithium battery fire incidents, one of the top safety concerns for airlines and aviation authorities worldwide.

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