The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a global awareness initiative, Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries, aimed at helping travellers fly safely with devices powered by lithium batteries, such as phones, laptops, and power banks.
The campaign outlines seven clear safety rules and is designed for use across IATA’s own platforms and by industry partners including airlines and airports.
“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 of Operations, Safety and Security. “With more passengers flying with multiple devices, this campaign supports airlines in providing clear guidance on how to carry these items safely”.
Travellers Are Carrying More Devices—But Many Don’t Know the Rules.
According to a recent IATA passenger survey:
83 per cent of travellers bring a mobile phone onboard
60 per cent travel with a laptop
44 per cent carry a power bank
Despite this high usage, misconceptions remain:
50 per cent mistakenly believe it is safe to pack small lithium-powered devices in checked luggage
45 per cent wrongly think power banks can go in checked bags
33 per cent are unaware that there are power limits on power banks and spare batteries
The Seven Safety Rules Every Traveler Should Know:
1. Pack light – Only take the devices and batteries you actually need.
2. Stay alert – If a device is overheating, smoking, or damaged, alert the crew or airport staff immediately.
3. Keep devices with you – Always bring phones, laptops, and other battery-powered items in your carry-on, not in checked baggage.
4. Protect spare batteries – Keep them in original packaging or cover terminals with tape.
5. Before gate-checking – If your hand baggage is moved to the cargo hold at the gate, remove all lithium-powered devices and batteries first.
6. Check battery size – Batteries over 100 watt-hours may need airline approval.
7. Review airline policies – Requirements may vary by airline and destination.
Global Rollout with Unified Messaging
The multilingual campaign includes digital content such as a short, animated video to explain the safety tips in an engaging and accessible way.
Airlines, airports, and other aviation partners can access customisable assets to help reinforce these messages across all stages of the passenger journey.