Airlines ban wireless headphones in luggage: reasons and consequences for passengers

Global aviation continues to tighten the rules for carrying electronic devices. After a wave of restrictions on power banks, wireless headphones have come under scrutiny — and Asian carriers have already been the first to take action.

Which airlines have introduced restrictions

Three Taiwanese airlines — EVA Air, UNI Air and Tigerair — have officially banned passengers from placing wireless headphones, including popular Apple AirPods, in checked baggage. They were joined by the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand, which has закрепило this ban at the legislative level.

The wording of the New Zealand authority is particularly notable: the AirPods charging case has officially been classified as a type of power bank — with all the corresponding restrictions.

What is the risk

The issue lies in the device’s design. Wireless headphones are stored in a case that also functions as a charger — meaning the lithium battery inside operates in a constant charging cycle. This mode of battery operation is considered the most dangerous in terms of the risk of spontaneous combustion.

In the aircraft’s cargo hold, such an incident may go unnoticed until a critical moment — which is why aviation regulators treat such devices with special caution.

What is allowed and what is not

The ban applies exclusively to checked baggage. Passengers may still freely use wireless headphones during the flight — they simply need to carry them in their hand luggage.

Should we expect bans in Europe

European aviation authorities have not yet announced similar measures. However, the precedent with power banks — which were initially banned by only a few carriers before restrictions became widespread — gives reason to consider the possibility. It is quite likely that the rules will change here as well in the coming years.

Before traveling, we recommend checking the current requirements of your airline — the rules may change without wide media coverage.

Source: express.co.uk via unian.net