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AirTags Fly: Battery Rules Cleared
26 Oct
Summary
- AirTags use small batteries well within TSA lithium limits.
- International aviation rules eased AirTag bans in 2023.
- Lithium battery risks include overheating and potential fires.
Airline regulations concerning batteries are strict, but AirTags present a simple case for travelers. The TSA's limitations on lithium batteries are stringent, restricting non-rechargeable batteries to 2 grams of lithium and rechargeable ones to 100 watt-hours. AirTags utilize CR2032 coin cells with less than 0.1 grams of lithium, easily meeting these requirements.
Internationally, the UN's aviation agency amended rules in 2023, allowing lithium battery devices in checked baggage if their lithium content is below 0.3 grams or their lithium-ion battery output is less than 2.7 Wh. This change significantly eases previous airline bans on AirTags, ensuring their legality for global travel.
The primary concern with lithium-ion batteries is thermal runaway, a chain reaction causing overheating and potential fires, dangerous in enclosed aircraft spaces. This risk necessitates regulations like keeping such batteries in carry-on baggage. While portable chargers face stricter rules, AirTags remain compliant for use on flights.
