In this day and age when travelling by plane whether on domestic or international routes for either holiday or business is becoming more affordable and accessible, it is best to be updated of latest security advisories from carriers. Reason why it is important is that, they vary according to territories and airline companies.
Take this latest from national flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) which was released on Monday. The airline has banned lithium ion batteries and many other items in their luggage which were previously allowed. In its official Facebook page, PAL listed that more than 2 grams of lithium batteries, as well as rechargeable batteries greater than 160 watt hours, are prohibited both for check-in and hand-carry bags.
With lithium ion batteries, the explanation of the airline company is that lithium batteries might explode due to the aircraft’s pressure. Depending also on how long the plane would travel, the battery might explode because planes are very sensitive.
Lithium batteries are commonly used as power sources for portable electronics and implanted medical devices. This means, gadgets like smartphones, powerbanks, laptops, digital cameras, and even pacemakers contain lithium ion batteries. Hence, it is important to note that travellers must know the weight of these items with lithium ion batteries that they carry.
The other items that are also put on restriction list are nail cutters, umbrella, liquids, all kinds of adhesive tape, among others, may only be allowed for checked-in.
The prohibitions are done in order to keep flying safe. Imagine this, In 2017, the United States’ Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) urged the global airline community to reconsider allowing batteries on flights because of the fire risk. The FAA conducted 10 tests in which it packed a fully-charged laptop into a suitcase and tested various scenarios in which the battery could catch fire. One example was an aerosol can of dry shampoo being strapped to the laptop. A fire immediately started, and the can exploded within 40 seconds.
Given the Pinoy traveller’s penchant for trying to be sneaky, there may still be those who will make ‘palusot’. But this won’t help. The risk one makes maybe the risk that could spell his own safety.
The bottomline is, if it’s prohibited, it is not safe. And it’s for everyone’s good.
