As the school holiday travel rush begins, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is urging passengers to pack right.
New multilingual resources are part of CASA’s Pack Right. Safe Flight. campaign, which helps travellers understand the rules – particularly when it comes to items powered by lithium batteries.
Most passengers now carry at least four lithium-powered devices, but many remain unaware of the rules or risks.
“Devices like phones, laptops, vapes and power banks are common items we travel with – but when they’re packed incorrectly, they can pose a serious fire risk,” said Pip Spence, CASA Chief Executive Officer and Director of Aviation Safety.
“Spare lithium batteries and power banks must never be packed in checked baggage. They should always be carried in the cabin, where cabin crew are trained to respond to any incidents.”
Devices with lithium batteries – such as laptops, mobiles and electric toothbrushes – can be packed in either your carry-on or checked luggage, provided the battery is secured in the device, switched off and protected from accidental activation.
Electrical devices without a battery, such as hair straighteners, can also be packed in either.
The new multilingual safety resources are now available online at casa.gov.au/packright/resources, alongside clear instructions on how to pack safely and comply with dangerous goods regulations.
“Packing right protects everyone on board. A single lithium battery fire in the cargo hold could endanger an entire flight,” added Ms Spence.
“Passengers should always follow crew instructions, including directions on the tarmac and safety briefings on the plane. Safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
CASA will be conducting checks, inspections and audits of airlines and other aviation operations over the holiday period to ensure high safety standards are being maintained.
