TSA permits AirTags in luggage, clarifies lithium battery rules for flights

Why AirTags are permitted in checked luggage

The TSA allows Apple’s AirTags in checked luggage because their lithium content—less than 0.1 grams—falls well below the 2-gram limit for non-rechargeable lithium metal batteries. The CR2032 coin cell battery used in AirTags has a power threshold of less than 0.7 watt-hours (Wh), which also complies with TSA regulations for lithium-ion devices.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) amended its rules in 2023 to permit lithium battery devices in checked baggage if their lithium content is under 0.3 grams or their output is less than 2.7 Wh. This change addressed bans imposed by some airlines on devices like AirTags.

Broader lithium battery restrictions on flights

Lithium-ion batteries pose risks such as thermal runaway, a chain reaction that can lead to fires or explosions. These risks, often triggered by damage, improper packing, or manufacturing defects, have led to strict TSA regulations for devices containing such batteries.

The TSA requires devices with lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries—including smartphones, laptops, and portable chargers—to be carried in carry-on baggage rather than checked luggage. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are limited to a maximum rating of 100 Wh per battery, with higher-wattage devices requiring airline approval.

Portable chargers are a frequent cause of lithium-ion battery incidents. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recorded over 700 such incidents since 2006, with nearly half involving portable battery packs. Some airlines, including Southwest, limit travelers to one portable charger per person, while others, such as Virgin Australia, Qantas, and Jetstar, have banned their use entirely during flights. The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department also imposed a ban on portable chargers after a power bank fire incident.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

For founders and operators in consumer electronics, travel tech, or aviation-adjacent sectors, these rules highlight the importance of designing products within lithium battery safety thresholds. Airlines and regulators are scrutinizing lithium-ion risks more closely, which could shape future product development—especially for devices intended for travel. Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s a market access issue, as non-compliant products may face bans or restrictions from airlines or regulators. Conversely, startups building luggage-tracking or travel-safety tech can treat AirTags’ compliance as a benchmark for their own designs.

Related on Lazyfounder

• Apple
• More technology news