E-Cigarettes: Airport Rules And Regulations Explained

With the rise in popularity of e-cigarettes, many regulations concerning their use have been introduced. While the laws vary depending on the country and even the airport, there are some general rules to be aware of when it comes to travelling with e-cigarettes.

E-cigarettes must be stored in hand luggage

E-cigarettes are not permitted in checked luggage or the hold of an aircraft. This is due to the fact that e-cigarettes use lithium batteries, which pose a fire risk. As such, they must be stored in hand luggage.

When packing your e-cigarette, it's important to take precautions to avoid any potential issues. Firstly, make sure to separate the device from any pods or tanks, as these will be counted as batteries and must be stored safely. Additionally, it's recommended to use a protective case for your e-cigarette to avoid damage and leaks.

It's also important to note that you cannot use your e-cigarette on the plane. Vaping is prohibited on all commercial airlines due to the potential safety risks and discomfort to other passengers. Therefore, your e-cigarette must remain switched off and stored away for the duration of the flight.

Different airlines may have specific instructions regarding e-cigarettes, so it's always a good idea to check their policies before your travel. For example, EasyJet allows passengers to carry e-cigarettes and a maximum of two spare batteries in their carry-on luggage. British Airways also permits e-cigarettes in hand luggage but prohibits their use on board.

In addition to airline policies, the laws and regulations of your destination country may also impact your ability to travel with e-cigarettes. Some countries have strict restrictions or even bans on vaping, so it's crucial to research these rules beforehand to ensure you don't encounter any legal issues during your travels.

E-cigarettes cannot be used on planes

E-cigarettes are only allowed in carry-on baggage, and passengers must take measures to prevent accidental activation of the heating element. Each lithium-ion battery must not exceed a Watt-hour rating of 100 Wh, and for lithium metal batteries, the lithium content must not be more than 2 grams. These restrictions are due to the fire risk associated with lithium batteries.

Using e-cigarettes on planes can have several consequences for the safety of the aircraft and its passengers. Firstly, there is a risk of fire. E-cigarettes use lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat, catch fire, or short-circuit if damaged or improperly used. Secondly, although rare, electromagnetic interference from e-cigarettes can disrupt the plane's navigation and communication systems. Finally, using e-cigarettes on board can distract other passengers, especially if issues such as liquid leaks or battery failure occur.

Many airlines explicitly prohibit the use of e-cigarettes due to these safety risks. Non-compliance with these rules may result in penalties, including fines and flight bans. In some cases, passengers have even faced criminal charges for vaping on planes. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the regulations and refrain from using e-cigarettes during the entire flight.

E-cigarettes cannot be used in some airports

At London's Gatwick Airport, e-cigarettes cannot be used anywhere inside the North and South Terminals. However, there are designated smoking areas outside both terminals. Similarly, at Heathrow Airport, e-cigarettes are prohibited inside any terminal building, but there are dedicated smoking areas outside where vaping is permitted.

In Scotland, Aberdeen International Airport has an airside smoking facility after security, located near Gate 5, where passengers can use e-cigarettes for a fee. Meanwhile, George Best Belfast City Airport in Northern Ireland prohibits the use of e-cigarettes inside the terminal building, but has outside smoking areas available.

While regulations may vary across different countries and airports, it is important to note that vaping is generally not permitted inside airport terminals. It is advisable to check the specific policies of your departure airport before travelling to ensure compliance with their rules on e-cigarette use.

E-liquid containers must be under 100ml

E-cigarettes and vaping devices are allowed in hand luggage on most airlines, but they must not be placed in checked baggage. This is because they contain lithium batteries, which pose a fire risk and are prohibited from being stored in the cargo hold.

When packing your e-cigarette, ensure that it is stored in a suitable protective case to avoid damage and leaks. It should be kept separate from any pods or tanks and treated as a battery, which must be stored safely.

If you are taking e-liquids onboard, they must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag, along with other liquids. Each container must not exceed 100ml. This is a standard regulation for transporting liquids in hand luggage, and it is important to comply with these rules to avoid any issues at airport security.

It is also recommended to use tightly sealed plastic or glass bottles for your e-liquids to prevent leaks. Additionally, placing them in a resealable plastic bag provides extra protection in case of spills.

By following these guidelines, you can safely transport your e-cigarette and e-liquids while adhering to airport security measures.

E-liquid containers must be placed in a clear plastic bag

E-cigarettes are allowed in hand luggage on most airlines, but not in hold luggage. This is because e-cigarettes are considered smoking items and have been proven to pose a fire risk when transported. Therefore, if you are travelling with e-liquid containers, it is important to take extra care in how you pack them.

In addition to placing your e-liquid containers in a clear plastic bag, you must also ensure that the containers hold no more than 100ml of liquid. This is a standard restriction for all liquids when travelling by air.

It is important to note that the rules and regulations regarding e-cigarettes and e-liquids can change at any time, so it is always a good idea to double-check with your airline and airport before you travel.

Frequently asked questions