The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a new global campaign, Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries, aimed at improving passenger awareness of safety rules for carrying lithium-powered devices such as mobile phones, laptops, cameras and power banks on flights.
The initiative comes amid a surge in travellers flying with multiple electronic devices and a worrying level of misinformation about how to pack them safely. The campaign provides seven clear rules for passengers and is being distributed across IATA’s website, social media channels, and through airline and airport partners worldwide as a set of white-label communication assets.
According to an IATA passenger survey, 83% of travellers carry a phone, 60% a laptop, and 44% a power bank when flying. Despite 93% believing they know the rules, many misunderstand the restrictions. Half of respondents wrongly think small lithium devices can be packed in checked baggage, while 45% believe the same about power banks. A third of passengers are unaware that limits apply to the size of spare batteries.
“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. “As more travellers fly with these devices, our campaign will help airlines educate passengers on the simple rules they must follow to travel safely.”
The seven safety rules focus on practical guidance: keeping devices in carry-on baggage, isolating loose batteries, avoiding damaged electronics, and checking airline-specific limits for larger batteries. Passengers are also reminded to remove electronic devices from hand baggage if it is checked at the gate.
Lithium batteries have become essential to modern travel, powering everything from smartphones to drones. Yet incidents involving overheating or fires though rare highlight the importance of correct handling and storage.
For travel advisors, the campaign offers a timely educational tool to share with clients. As fly-cruise and multi-destination itineraries grow, reinforcing awareness of lithium battery safety can help prevent flight delays, reduce risk, and support airlines’ broader safety compliance initiatives.
Further information and downloadable campaign materials are available at www.iata.org/lithium