3 Taiwanese airlines ban Bluetooth earphones in checked baggage

In a significant move to enhance aviation safety, three major Taiwanese airlines—Uni Air, Tiger Air, and Eva Air—have imposed a ban on Bluetooth earphones in checked baggage. The decision stems from concerns over the lithium-ion batteries embedded in these devices, which pose risks of short-circuiting and potential fire hazards. According to Uni Air, Bluetooth earphones and their charging cases are classified as portable electronic devices (PEDs) that remain in ‘standby mode’ due to their automatic charging feature. This violates the requirement that PEDs must be entirely powered off when stored in checked luggage. Tiger Air has also restricted the transport of earphone charging cases, permitting them only in hand-carried baggage. Eva Air has echoed similar guidelines, reinforcing the industry-wide focus on safety. The dangers of lithium batteries were highlighted in a recent incident aboard an Air China flight, where a fire erupted in an overhead compartment due to these batteries, causing panic among passengers. This incident underscores the necessity of such precautions. Additionally, Emirates, the UAE’s flagship carrier, recently banned the use of power banks onboard, aligning with broader regional safety measures. These restrictions reflect the aviation industry’s proactive approach to mitigating risks associated with lithium battery-powered devices.