Lithium-ion battery fires have prompted several airlines to tighten rules around wireless earbuds and other small electronics.
On the heels of multiple countries announcing new restrictions on in-flight power banks, four airlines have now updated their baggage policies to limit where AirPods and other Bluetooth earbuds can be packed. The concern is fire risk—specifically from lithium-ion batteries stored in checked luggage.
Wireless earbuds have surged in popularity thanks to their compact size and convenience. But like power banks and other compact electronics, they rely on lithium-ion batteries, which have been linked to onboard fire incidents in recent years.
To reduce the risk of a fire in the cargo hold, Air New Zealand, EVA Air, Tigerair, and UNI Air now require Bluetooth earbuds—including AirPods—to be packed in carry-on luggage only, not checked bags.
A fire in an aircraft’s cargo hold can be difficult to detect and extinguish, making battery-powered devices in checked luggage a particular safety concern.
Why airlines are changing these rules
Lithium-ion batteries can overheat, short-circuit, or enter “thermal runaway” under certain conditions. While rare, battery fires onboard aircraft are taken seriously due to the confined environment and limited firefighting options during flight.
Wireless earbuds present a unique concern because they are often stored in charging cases, meaning the batteries may be actively charging while packed away. In a checked bag, that creates a risk airlines are increasingly unwilling to accept.
What each airline is saying
Air New Zealand (via aviation.govt.nz)
Wireless earbuds / AirPods
- Carry-on bags only
- Must not be placed in checked luggage under any circumstances
- Each passenger may carry up to 20 spare batteries or power banks in their carry-on
- Wireless earbud charging cases count toward that total
EVA Air
An airline spokesperson confirmed that Bluetooth earphones and similar electronic devices must be carried in hand luggage only and are no longer permitted in checked bags.
Tigerair
The airline states that any portable device containing lithium batteries, including wireless earbud cases and handheld electronic devices, must be transported in carry-on luggage for safety reasons.
UNI Air
UNI Air classifies Bluetooth earphones and their charging cases as Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) and says they are not permitted in checked baggage. Passengers must carry them in hand luggage instead.
FAQ
Can I still use AirPods or Bluetooth earbuds on the plane?
Yes. AirPods and other wireless earbuds are still allowed for in-flight use. On these four airlines, they just must be carried in the cabin rather than packed in checked luggage.
Our take on it
As airlines respond to a growing number of lithium-ion battery incidents, restrictions on small electronic devices are becoming more specific—and more common. While the rules can feel incremental, the goal is consistent: reducing fire risk in parts of the aircraft where problems are hardest to manage.
For travelers, the safest approach is simple: keep battery-powered electronics in your carry-on and check airline policies before you pack.
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