Dangerous goods and lithium batteries
Why some everyday items are restricted on aircraft, and how crew are trained to recognise them.
Dangerous goods regulations classify items — flammables, batteries, gases, corrosives and more — by the risk they pose in an aircraft's unique environment of pressure changes, vibration and confined space.
Lithium batteries in phones, laptops and power banks are generally allowed in carry-on baggage but restricted or forbidden in checked baggage, because a fire in the cabin can be detected and managed much faster than one in the cargo hold.
Crew receive dangerous goods awareness training so they can recognise warning labels, answer passenger questions correctly, and know who to inform if an undeclared item is suspected.
Key points
- Dangerous goods rules exist because of the aircraft's unique environment.
- Lithium batteries are generally safer in the cabin than in checked baggage.
- Crew are trained to recognise, not just enforce, dangerous goods rules.
Vocabulary
- Dangerous goods (DG)
- Articles or substances capable of posing a risk to health, safety or property during air transport.
- Power bank
- A portable battery pack, generally treated like other lithium battery devices for carriage rules.
Remember this
Educational overview only — always follow the current airline/operator procedures and approved training.
Mini quiz
Why are spare lithium batteries generally kept in carry-on, not checked baggage?
Sources
Last verified: 2026-09-28