FAA Pack Safe Guidelines
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the federal agency responsible for regulating civil aviation in the United States. Among its many responsibilities, the FAA establishes safety guidelines for transporting hazardous materials—also known as dangerous goods—on aircraft. These regulations protect passengers, crew, and aircraft from potential hazards during flight.
What Are Dangerous Goods?
Definition
Dangerous goods (also called hazardous materials or "hazmat") are items or substances that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment when transported by air. These materials can be flammable, explosive, corrosive, toxic, or reactive under certain conditions—especially changes in temperature and pressure during flight.
Many everyday items are classified as dangerous goods, and you may not realize some common products in your home could be restricted on aircraft. Understanding these guidelines helps keep everyone safe and prevents delays at security checkpoints.
Common Dangerous Goods
You might be surprised to learn that many household items are considered dangerous goods when transported by air:
Lithium Batteries
Found in laptops, phones, tablets, cameras, power banks, and e-cigarettes. Spare batteries must be in carry-on baggage only.
Aerosols
Hairspray, spray deodorant, cooking sprays, and spray paint. Toiletry aerosols are limited to 3.4 oz in carry-on.
Flammable Liquids
Lighter fluid, gasoline, acetone, certain nail polish removers, and alcohol over 140 proof (70% ABV).
Corrosives
Drain cleaners, car batteries, pool chemicals, and certain cleaning products containing acids or alkalis.
Explosives & Fireworks
Fireworks, flares, sparklers, and ammunition (ammunition may be checked with restrictions).
Compressed Gases
Propane tanks, butane canisters, CO2 cartridges, and self-inflating life jackets (with restrictions).
Packing Guidelines
The FAA's PackSafe program helps passengers understand what can and cannot be packed in carry-on and checked baggage.
| Item | Carry-On | Checked Bag | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laptops & Phones | Allowed | Allowed | Carry-on recommended |
| Spare Lithium Batteries | Allowed | Not allowed | Must be in carry-on; terminals protected |
| E-Cigarettes & Vapes | Allowed | Not allowed | Never use or charge on aircraft |
| Toiletry Aerosols | Allowed | Allowed | 3.4 oz limit in carry-on |
| Matches (safety) | Allowed | Not allowed | One book only; on your person |
| Lighters (disposable) | Allowed | Not allowed | One per passenger; on your person |
| Alcohol (24-70% ABV) | Allowed | Allowed | 5 liters max in checked; mini bottles in carry-on |
| Fireworks & Flares | Not allowed | Not allowed | Never allowed on aircraft |
| Gasoline & Fuel | Not allowed | Not allowed | Never allowed on aircraft |
Lithium Battery Safety
Why Lithium Batteries Require Special Attention
Lithium batteries power most of our portable electronics, but they can pose a fire risk if damaged, defective, or improperly packed. A lithium battery fire in the cargo hold—where crew cannot access it—could have catastrophic consequences.
Keep Spares in Carry-On
Spare lithium batteries must always go in your carry-on baggage, never in checked luggage. This includes power banks and camera batteries.
Protect the Terminals
Cover battery terminals with tape or keep batteries in their original packaging or a protective case to prevent short circuits.
Don't Charge on Aircraft
Never charge lithium battery devices using the aircraft's power outlets. Use devices in battery mode only during flight.
Report Damage Immediately
If your device or battery is damaged, hot, or swelling, notify a crew member immediately. Do not attempt to use it.
Why It Matters
Undeclared or improperly packed dangerous goods have contributed to aircraft incidents worldwide. When hazardous materials aren't handled correctly, the consequences can include fires that are difficult to extinguish at altitude, toxic fumes in the cabin, and damage to aircraft systems. By understanding and following these guidelines, you play an important role in keeping air travel safe for everyone.
Before You Pack
Quick Checklist
- Check Labels Look for hazard symbols on products
- Review Battery Devices Identify items with lithium batteries
- Separate Spare Batteries Pack them in carry-on with protected terminals
- Leave Prohibited Items Home Fuel, fireworks, and flammables cannot fly
- When in Doubt, Ask Contact your airline before traveling
For a complete searchable database of items and detailed packing guidelines: