IATA Launches Global Safety Campaign on Travelling with Lithium Batteries

With the rapid rebound in global air travel and a surge in passengers carrying electronic devices, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a new global initiative to raise awareness about lithium battery safety. The campaign, titled “Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries,” aims to educate travelers on how to safely pack and handle their battery-powered devices during flights.

The campaign, now live on IATA’s website and social media channels, is also available as a customizable “white-label” toolkit for airlines, airports, and travel industry partners to integrate into their passenger communication efforts. Its main objective is to reduce the risk of fires and other incidents caused by the improper handling of lithium batteries on aircraft.

“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 travelers fly with these devices, our campaign will help airlines educate passengers on the simple rules they must follow when travelling with electronic devices that have become an essential part of daily life.”

IATA’s latest passenger survey highlights just how reliant travelers have become on personal electronics. Around 83 percent carry mobile phones, 60 percent bring laptops, and 44 percent pack power banks. However, the study also revealed significant gaps in understanding: nearly half of travelers incorrectly believe they can safely pack small lithium-powered devices or power banks in checked luggage, while one in three think there are no restrictions on spare batteries.

To address these misconceptions, the campaign introduces seven clear safety rules: pack only what’s needed, keep lithium-powered devices in hand luggage, protect loose batteries, check airline policies, and immediately report any damaged or overheating devices to crew or airport staff.

The initiative also clarifies key terminology to make complex safety guidelines more accessible. It explains common terms such as “portable electronic devices,” “spare batteries,” and “smart luggage,” helping travelers better interpret airport and airline instructions.

According to IATA, most lithium battery incidents onboard aircraft stem from devices packed incorrectly in checked baggage or from damaged batteries that overheat. The new campaign emphasizes that spare batteries and power banks must always be carried in hand luggage, never in checked bags, and should be individually protected to prevent short circuits.

The “Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries” campaign comes as airlines worldwide face growing safety challenges from the widespread use of battery-powered electronics — from phones and laptops to e-cigarettes and smart suitcases. By promoting a unified global message, IATA hopes to standardize passenger understanding and reduce avoidable safety incidents.

“This campaign gives the travel ecosystem a simple, unified message to share with passengers,” Careen added. “We believe this shared responsibility can dramatically improve understanding and reduce risks.”

Further details, along with downloadable campaign materials, are available on IATA’s official website.