Globally, lithium-ion batteries have become a growing concern at altitude, prompting regulators worldwide to update how passengers may travel with products containing these batteries. This is due to potential risks associated with these batteries, including concerns around smoke, fire and heat production. From 1 January 2026, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has implemented updated guidance stipulated in its Battery Guidance Document, which forms part of its Dangerous Goods Regulations.

As a recent member of IATA, LIFT explains the revised process for passengers travelling with lithium-ion batteries. “This is a safety precaution and the main takeaway is that passengers with products containing lithium-ion batteries are required to take these items into the cabin with them, as they are not permitted to be checked in with baggage. In addition, these items are not to be used onboard during take off, landing or during taxiing on the runway at any time. The items must be stored in the seat pocket in front of the passenger, or on their person, and may not be stored in overhead bins, so passengers can monitor these items during flight,” explains Theuns Dreyer, Head: Airports and Ground Operations at LIFT. 

Dreyer notes that the change in procedure has caused some confusion at check-in and at the boarding gates, which has the potential to result in delays. “We want to help our passengers better understand the process to avoid frustration caused by possible repacking of luggage at check in, or additional security searches due to detection of power banks during the baggage screening process, for example.”

What items contain lithium-ion batteries?

In this day and age, it’s not uncommon to travel with several battery-operated devices and chargers. From laptops and cell phones to power banks and bluetooth earbuds, passengers are increasingly traveling with more and more tech. In fact, an IATA passenger survey found that 83% of passengers carry a phone, 60% bring a laptop, and 44% travel with a power bank. Many of these products contain lithium-ion batteries, the most common being power banks, but Dreyer explains there are other products with these batteries that would also be required to travel in the cabin.

“Travellers often don’t realise that it’s not just power banks they need to consider. Lithium-ion batteries can be found in mobile phones, cameras, electric toothbrushes, some vape devices, e-cigarettes, e-readers and smart watches.” 

Travelling with battery-powered products

“I’d advise travellers to place these items in their carry-on luggage to prevent any repackaging at boarding gates,” says Dreyer. “Bring only the items you really need, to avoid having to carry too much in your cabin luggage.” He also suggests passengers check regarding larger items with their airline, as those batteries over 100 watt-hours may not be permitted at all.

Different airlines have their own sets of rules regarding these batteries, and travellers should always check with their airline for specific procedures to follow. On LIFT flights, lithium-ion battery devices, such as powerbanks may be used during the flight, however they must not be used during take off, landing or taxiing, and must be safely stored and protected from potential damage.

“IATA recommends travellers monitor their items during a flight. It’s important that passengers report any possible concern to crew immediately, including smoke, heat or other visible damage to a battery product.”

Lastly, Dreyer recommends passengers take note of signage at check-in and communications received from their airline prior to their flight. “LIFT has been sending additional messages to our passengers on this topic – it’s important that these messages are read to help prevent delays as if an item of concern is found to be in checked baggage, this can lead to boarding delays for all passengers, or the possible offloading of bags, which could lead to delays in baggage arrival at the final destination.”

For more information travellers can refer to IATA’s ‘Travel safe with Lithium Batteries’ information, or contact their airline directly for any queries.