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Pilots Issue Updated Advice: Beware of Poorly Packed Lithium Battery Gifts

by Nancy Jackson BALPA Communications and External Relations Manager

Cameras, laptops, phones, and toys with lithium batteries can pose significant fire risks if mishandled.

As holiday travel peaks, pilots are urging festive travellers to prioritize safety when packing gifts, especially those containing lithium batteries. The British Airline Pilots’ Association (BALPA) reminds passengers to pack items containing lithium batteries in their hand luggage rather than checked baggage. Damaged or poorly manufactured batteries can short circuit, releasing toxic gases or igniting intense fires that spread rapidly (thermal runaway). This risk has been implicated in several aviation events, including the fatal UPS 747 accident in 2010 and the Asiana 747 fatal accident in 2011.

Recent Examples of Lithium Battery Incidents

Lithium battery fires have continued to make headlines. In 2023, a fire aboard a passenger flight at a U.S. airport was traced to an e-scooter battery packed in luggage, causing delays but thankfully no injuries. Earlier this year, a cargo flight in China reported a similar incident when faulty battery packaging led to an inflight fire, emphasizing the ongoing threat posed by improper handling of these devices.

Backing ICAO Guidelines

BALPA supports the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) advice to keep lithium battery devices in the cabin, where crew can quickly detect and address potential fires. The association is also advocating for new measures to identify passenger hand baggage containing lithium batteries. These could include boarding card labels or “cabin baggage only” tags for enhanced safety.

BALPA’s Message for passengers

Joji Waites, BALPA’s Head of Flight Safety, shared:

“We understand passengers are carrying gifts for loved ones during the holidays, but we urge caution when packing items like phones, toys, and laptops containing lithium batteries. The safest option is to carry them in your hand luggage. If something goes wrong, it can be addressed quickly by the crew, preventing serious issues.”

“Pilots aren’t here to ruin Christmas—our goal is to ensure everyone reaches their destination safely. A little extra care when packing can make a big difference for flight safety.”

BALPA’s Top Tips for Safe Lithium Battery Travel
  • Identify lithium battery items: Check for batteries in electronics like toys, phones, and cameras.
  • Pack these in hand luggage: Avoid placing lithium battery devices in checked baggage.
  • Secure spare batteries: Follow ICAO rules, ensuring spares are safely packaged and carried in hand luggage.
  • Report issues immediately: If a battery overheats or starts smoking, inform airline staff right away.
Wishing You a Safe Holiday Season

BALPA extends its best wishes for a merry and safe Christmas to all travellers this year. By staying informed and packing carefully, passengers can help ensure a joyful and secure holiday journey.