Far too many passengers are putting potentially dangerous lithium ion batteries in luggage that goes in aircraft holds. 

Now the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is to launch an awareness campaign in July to help airlines communicate to passengers the dangers involved in carrying personal electronic devices this way. 

Instead, they must be carried in hand luggage and put in the cabin so if there is a problem with batteries overheating or catching fire they can quickly be tackled.

The move follows growing concerns about the potential danger of such devices in checked baggage. 

IATA has been working with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) on the issue and recently conducted two surveys involving airlines and passengers to determine the risk.

IATA found that many passengers are carrying prohibited items in their checked baggage, such as power banks and spare batteries, which are considered higher risk and could potentially ignite when not in use. 

Non-compliance is high due to a lack of awareness of the regulations or of the potential consequences. 

Although IATA's research has determined that incidents related to carrying personal electronic devices in checked baggage is very low, the risk is potentially high. 

This was reported online by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) which is the only non-profit membership trade organisation comprised of the world's leading airlines, industry suppliers, major media groups and related aviation industry leaders dedicated to elevating the passenger experience for more than 80% of global passengers, while driving industry initiatives and desired regulations. 

To read more go to https://apex.aero/2018/06/06/iata-ped-safety-awareness-campaign

* AvSax fire containment bags are now on board several major airlines worldwide and were deployed 27 times in 2017.

If an electronic device starts to seriously overheat or emit smoke the cabin crew will pour at least two litres of water into an AvSax. It is imperative to first knock down the flames from the device using an on board halon fire extinguisher, then transfer the device into AvSax before it reignites. Additional water is then required. The water activates the polymer gel inside the bag causing it to expand around the device. Should the device keep on venting then the AvSax is tough enough to absorb the energy.

The AvSax cools the batteries in the device, reducing the likelihood of the battery igniting but if it does go into thermal runaway it is all contained within the bag.

Amazingly, the water is absorbed into the internal lining of the bag so the device is dry when it is removed.