Taiwanese Airlines Ban Bluetooth Earbuds in Checked Luggage

Three Taiwanese airlines have implemented a ban on packing Bluetooth earbuds and their charger cases in checked luggage due to international aviation safety regulations. This decision affects passengers flying with EVA Air and Uni Air, which have stated that these devices must not be in standby or sleep mode when placed in checked bags. As such, they must be carried as hand luggage instead.

The rationale behind this policy is that Bluetooth earbuds and their charging cases are classified as portable electronic devices. When stored in checked luggage, these devices should be completely turned off to comply with safety standards. However, since charging occurs when earbuds are placed in their cases, keeping them in checked luggage violates aviation regulations.

Tigerair Taiwan has noted that earbud charger cases contain built-in lithium-ion batteries, similar to those in portable electric fans, which are also prohibited in checked luggage. Other airlines such as Starlux Airlines, China Airlines, and Mandarin Airlines do not have specific regulations regarding earbuds and their chargers. Nonetheless, Starlux Airlines emphasizes that all portable electronic devices in checked luggage must be completely powered down during flights.

Passengers traveling with China Airlines and Mandarin Airlines are advised to keep their earbuds and charger cases in hand luggage. Both airlines reiterate that lithium-ion batteries and portable chargers are prohibited in checked bags for safety reasons.

In a related incident, ferry passengers traveling on the Nanhai Star 1, which operates between islets in Penghu County, are also facing restrictions on portable chargers. Following an incident where a passenger’s charger ignited before departure, the Maritime and Port Bureau has mandated that portable chargers must not be packed in checked luggage.

The Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection has issued guidelines urging passengers to ensure that their chargers have the necessary certifications before boarding ferries. Passengers are reminded that chargers should be kept in sight at all times and are advised against using damaged or overheated chargers to prevent safety risks.

These measures reflect a growing emphasis on safety in both air and maritime travel, as authorities seek to mitigate risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and electronic devices.