Muscat: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a global safety campaign titled “Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries” to raise awareness among air travellers on how to safely carry mobile phones, laptops, power banks, and other lithium-powered devices while flying.
The campaign provides seven key safety rules for passengers, including bringing only essential devices and batteries, keeping all electronic devices in hand luggage instead of checked baggage, and notifying crew members immediately if a device becomes hot, smokes, or appears damaged. It also advises travellers to protect spare batteries by keeping them in original packaging or covering terminals with tape to prevent short-circuits.
If hand baggage is placed in the aircraft hold, all lithium batteries and devices must be removed first. For larger batteries exceeding 100 watt-hours—commonly used in drones, professional cameras, and power tools—passengers should check with their airline, as prior approval may be required.
Several airlines, including Oman’s SalamAir, Qatar Airways, and Emirates, have already implemented stricter rules on carrying power banks aboard flights.
“Lithium-powered devices are safe when handled properly, but they can pose a risk if damaged or packed incorrectly,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security. “Our campaign helps airlines educate passengers on simple, vital safety measures when travelling with electronic devices that are part of everyday life.”
The campaign will be featured on IATA’s website and social media platforms and will be available as white-label material for airlines, airports, and other partners across the travel sector.
A recent passenger survey found that while 93% of travellers believe they understand the rules, 50% wrongly think small lithium devices can be packed in checked baggage, 45% believe power banks are allowed there, and 33% assume there are no limits on battery capacity.
According to IATA, 83% of travellers carry mobile phones, 60% carry laptops, and 44% carry power banks when they fly—underscoring the importance of awareness for safe travel.
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