UK Civil Aviation Authority issues lithium battery safety checklist

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has released a new lithium battery safety checklist ahead of the October half-term travel period, during which nearly three million passengers are expected to fly across England and Wales.

The regulator warned that incidents involving lithium battery-powered devices remain highly likely. The checklist aims to help passengers identify warning signs, such as overheating or smoking, and respond quickly if a device catches fire onboard an aircraft.

Research commissioned by the CAA indicates that while awareness of travel rules has risen to 86%, approximately 31% of passengers still incorrectly believe lithium battery items can be packed in checked luggage. Additionally, the number of passengers carrying power banks has increased to 54%.

The CAA advises passengers to always carry power banks in the cabin, verify airline size and quantity limits, and avoid charging power banks during flights. If a device becomes hot, passengers are instructed to switch it off, stop charging, and immediately alert cabin crew.