Summary of Airlines That Prohibit/Restrict "Smart Luggage"

Although such luggage has become highly popular among travelers, some models—particularly those that use “lithium batteries” that cannot be removed from the casing—are restricted from being carried on planes. This is because they pose a risk of explosion and danger to passengers and crew.

Lithium batteries are high-quality batteries with a high energy output, designed to allow devices to operate continuously for many hours on a single charge. However, if they are improperly packaged or damaged during transport, they can short-circuit and catch fire. Consequently, some airlines have measures declaring that certain electric luggage models cannot be carried on planes because they have a non-removable, built-in battery.

Airline Policies

• Thai Airways International (THAI) (THAI)

  • Strictly prohibits electric luggage, as well as all small vehicles powered by lithium batteries, from being brought on board, whether as carry-on or checked baggage. This ban applies to items with batteries exceeding 2.7 Wh, including motorized luggage, similar items, and Motorized Baggage or Rideable Carry-On Baggage.

• American Airlines (AAL)

  • Announced the need to inspect passengers' smart electric bags. Passengers must remove the lithium-ion battery from the bag before boarding, and the bag is prohibited from being used throughout the journey. However, the bag may be used normally within and around the airport premises.

• Delta Air Lines (DAL)

  • Issued an announcement effective January 15, 2018, requiring passengers using smart electric luggage to remove the battery from the bag before traveling on board.

• Alaska Airlines (ALK)

  • Similarly announced that passengers must remove the battery from smart electric luggage before boarding, especially when bringing the item as carry-on baggage.

  
  

Other Electronic Devices Prohibited on Planes

In addition, there are several other electronic devices that nearly all airlines strictly prohibit from being brought on board, especially items containing lithium batteries as a key component or objects that can easily cause sparks:

• Portable Chargers (Power Banks): Power Banks with a capacity of no more than 32,000 mAh can be carried on, limited to no more than two pieces per person.

• Small Personal Transportation Devices powered by lithium batteries, such as electric scooters.

• All types of flammable or explosive materials, such as lighter fluid, solid fuel, etc., to prevent explosions or fires.

• Hazardous Substances, such as insecticides, arsenic, oxidizing agents, ammonium nitrate, etc.

Although "electric luggage" is prohibited by some airlines, technology has advanced significantly, allowing newer models of bags to have removable batteries. Only some older models have batteries permanently embedded in the bag.

Ultimately, these prohibitions announced by airlines are for the safety of all passengers, crew, and pilots who must strictly adhere to regulations. Therefore, please comply with the regulations of the airline you are traveling with to ensure safety for yourself and your fellow travelers.