Airports And Lighters: Availability And Restrictions

Lighters are available for purchase at some airports, but the availability varies depending on the airport and country. While some airports sell lighters in shops located after security checkpoints, others may not have them available for purchase within the airport premises. It is important to note that the rules regarding carrying lighters on flights differ across countries and airlines. In the United States, for example, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to carry one butane or Zippo lighter in their carry-on luggage or pocket. However, butane torch lighters are prohibited in the cabin. It is always a good idea to check the specific regulations of the country and airline you are travelling with to ensure you are compliant with their policies.

Lighters are available past security at some airports

In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows travellers to carry one butane or Zippo lighter in their carry-on luggage or pocket. Lighters with fuel are generally prohibited in checked baggage, but travellers can carry up to two lighters if they are enclosed in a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved case. It is important to note that different countries may have different rules regarding lighters, so it is always a good idea to check the regulations of the specific country and airport before assuming that lighters will be available or allowed.

Lighters are allowed in hand luggage in some circumstances

In general, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), you are allowed to carry one butane or Zippo lighter in your carry-on bag or pocket. Disposable lighters, such as Bic lighters, and Zippo-type lighters are permitted. These lighters can even have fuel in them. However, it is recommended that you keep the lighter easily accessible, as you may need to remove it during security screening. If your carry-on bag is checked at the gate or planeside, any lighter must be removed and kept with you in the aircraft cabin.

It is important to note that certain types of lighters are prohibited. Torch lighters, plasma lighters, electronic lighters, e-lighters, gun lighters, and any lighters that resemble weapons are not allowed in carry-on luggage. Additionally, lighters with fuel are generally not permitted in checked baggage unless they are enclosed in a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved case, with a maximum of two lighters.

To avoid any issues, it is often recommended to purchase a cheap lighter at your destination or carry a simple book of safety matches, as matchboxes are typically allowed in carry-on luggage.

Lighters are allowed in checked luggage in some circumstances

According to TSA guidelines, lighters with fuel are generally not permitted in checked baggage. However, there is an exemption that allows passengers to carry up to two disposable or Zippo-style lighters in their checked luggage, provided they are properly enclosed in a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved case. These cases are airtight containers that reduce the risk of transporting lighters and typically hold only one lighter, although some hold two. It's important to note that these special containers are the only way to carry lighters in checked baggage, and they must be marked with the DOT special permit number.

Additionally, it is recommended that lighters be empty when placed in checked baggage. The FAA advises passengers to pack empty lighters in checked baggage along with a note explaining that they contain no fuel. This is because even a single drop of fuel can be considered a violation of the rules, and security personnel may disagree about whether a lighter is truly empty.

It's also worth mentioning that certain types of lighters are prohibited in checked luggage altogether. These include arc lighters, plasma lighters, electronic lighters, e-lighters, gun lighters, and torch lighters. These lighters pose a higher risk and are not allowed under any circumstances in checked bags, even if they are empty and stored in a DOT-approved case.

Furthermore, it is illegal to ship lighters containing fuel or fuel residue, and lighter fluid and butane refills are also forbidden. Therefore, it is generally advisable to purchase lighters at your destination, as they are inexpensive and readily available.

Lighter types that are prohibited on planes

Lighters are allowed on planes, but there are restrictions on the type and number of lighters that can be carried. The rules are set by the TSA and FAA in the US, and there may be different rules in other countries.

• Torch lighters, also known as butane lighters, blue flame lighters, or jet flame lighters, are not allowed in the cabin or in checked baggage. These lighters create a very thin, needle-like flame that can reach temperatures of up to 2,500°F. They are often used for pipes and cigars and can maintain a consistent flame regardless of the angle at which they are held. Examples include jet lighters, blue-flame lighters, cigar lighters, chef torches, micro torches, and utility torches.
• Lighters with unabsorbed liquid fuel, such as desk/table lighters and antique wick lighters, are forbidden. These lighters do not have an absorbent lining, which means they can leak and pose a safety risk.
• Lighters with lithium-ion batteries are not allowed in checked baggage due to the risk of fire. However, they are permitted in carry-on bags if measures are taken to prevent unintentional activation of the heating element. Each lithium-ion battery must not exceed a Watt-hour (Wh) rating of 100 Wh.
• Arc lighters, plasma lighters, electronic lighters, and e-lighters are prohibited in checked baggage. These modern lighters often have USB charging capabilities and can be activated accidentally. If carried in a carry-on bag, the battery must be removed, or the lighter must be placed in a protective case to prevent unintentional activation.
• Gun lighters or any lighters that resemble weapons are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These lighters can be mistaken for real firearms, and bringing them through airport security may result in stiff penalties.
• Lighters with lighter fluid are highly flammable and are not allowed in carry-on or checked bags.

It is important to note that the final decision on whether an item is allowed through the security checkpoint rests with the TSA officer. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be prohibited if it triggers an alarm, appears tampered with, or poses other security concerns.

Countries with different rules on lighters

Different countries have different rules regarding carrying lighters on planes. While some countries allow lighters in carry-on luggage, others require them to be carried on one's person. Some countries also have specific requirements for the type of lighter that can be brought onboard. Here is a breakdown of the rules in several countries:

United States

In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows disposable and Zippo lighters without fuel in checked bags. If a lighter contains fuel, a Department of Transportation (DOT) exemption permits up to two lighters in a DOT-approved case. Only one disposable lighter is allowed in carry-on luggage, and lithium battery-powered lighters must also be included in this allowance. Lighter fluid, torch lighters, and arc lighters are prohibited in checked baggage.

United Kingdom

The UK prohibits lighters in hold or hand luggage. However, passengers are allowed to carry one lighter, which must be kept in a pocket within a transparent, resealable plastic bag that holds no more than a liter and measures less than 20 cm by 20 cm. It is important to note that passengers cannot carry both matches and a lighter.

Australia

Australian regulations allow one lighter per passenger, specifically permitting lighters containing liquefied gas (e.g., BIC lighters with butane gas) and lighters that use absorbed liquid fuel (e.g., Zippo lighters). Other types of lighters like blue flame and torch lighters are prohibited. Passengers must carry the lighter on their person in a pocket, not packed in any luggage.

New Zealand

New Zealand has specific requirements for the types of lighters allowed. Gas lighters with two independent actions to activate ignition, such as BIC lighters, are permitted. Lithium-powered lighters with a safety feature to prevent accidental activation, such as laser-plasma or arc lighters, are also allowed. Survival firelighters are permitted, but cigar lighters, blue flame lighters, large lighters, and lighter fluid are banned. Lighters must be carried on the person, not in any luggage.

Barbados

There are conflicting reports about the rules for lighters in Barbados. Some sources suggest that lighters are prohibited on flights to and from the country, while others claim that one lighter is allowed if it is disposable or a Zippo-type. It is recommended to consult official sources or airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

General Recommendations

Due to the varying regulations and the potential for confusion, it is generally recommended to avoid bringing lighters on planes altogether. Lighters are inexpensive and readily available in most destinations, making it more convenient to purchase one upon arrival. Additionally, some countries and airlines may have specific restrictions on the type of lighter allowed, further complicating the matter.

Frequently asked questions