Why MacBook Pro is not allowed in flights?

MacBook Pro Flight Ban: Airlines Clamp Down Amid Fire Fears

Contents

1 Can Macbooks go through TSA?
2 Can I bring an unopened MacBook on a plane?
3 US Airlines and Flights
4 European Union Aviation Safety Agency
5 Other Airlines

A growing number of airlines have issued bans on MacBook Pro laptops aboard their flights. This sweeping action comes in the wake of Apple’s recall for its 15-inch MacBook Pro models sold between September 2015 and February 2017, due to risks that the battery could overheat and potentially catch fire.

The urgency of the situation has led to an expanding roster of airlines adopting various restrictions on the MacBook Pro. Passengers are now urged to consult their airline’s specific MacBook Pro ban policy before heading to the airport to avoid any unpleasant surprises at the check-in counter.

Apple has identified the hazard as an overheating battery within the affected laptops, which poses a risk of swelling or igniting. Echoing these concerns, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States has reminded airlines to adhere to the 2016 safety guidelines regarding consumer electronics equipped with recalled batteries. According to these guidelines, electronics, including the implicated MacBook Pros, are prohibited in both checked luggage and as carry-on items on flights within the USA.

Business Insider has stepped in to compile a comprehensive list of airlines, regulatory agencies, and countries that have either banned or imposed restrictions on the recalled MacBook Pro models.

To determine if your MacBook Pro is part of the recall, Apple encourages owners to visit their recall page and enter the laptop’s serial number. This information can be easily located by selecting the Apple logo at the top-left corner of the screen and navigating to “About This Mac.”

Can Macbooks go through TSA?

Yes, MacBooks, like all laptops, can go through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints in the United States. However, during the screening process, TSA requires all laptops to be removed from their cases and placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening. This procedure helps TSA officers get a clear view of the electronic device to ensure security compliance. If traveling with a MacBook, be prepared to take it out of your carry-on luggage when going through security. Remember, any specific travel restrictions or bans on certain MacBook models due to safety concerns should be checked before flying.

Can I bring an unopened MacBook on a plane?

No, within the U.S., laptops in carry-on bags must be taken out of any packaging and placed alone in a screening bin. The sole exception is for travelers with TSA Pre✓® clearance; in this case, a single laptop may stay in a carry-on bag during the security check.

Notable Airline Policies:

US Airlines and Flights

Adhering to the FAA’s directive, all airlines operating within, to, or from the United States are enforcing a ban on the affected laptops.

European Union Aviation Safety Agency

While not imposing a total ban, the agency advises that the specified MacBook Pro models should be powered down and not used during flights.

Other Airlines

Qantas: Has prohibited all 15-inch MacBook Pro laptops from checked luggage, insisting they remain off and in carry-on baggage during flights.

Virgin Australia: Takes a broader approach by banning all Apple MacBooks from checked luggage, though they can be carried in the cabin.

Etihad: Excludes all MacBook Pro models from checked luggage, allowing them in the passenger cabin instead.

Other airlines imposing full bans include Tui, Thomas Cook, Air Transat, Air Italy, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways, reflecting a global concern over the safety risks posed by these devices.

The aviation industry has taken serious note of the potential danger, especially since overheating devices can lead to emergency landings—a costly and hazardous scenario. Thankfully, innovations like AvSax, a fire containment bag, have been introduced on thousands of aircraft worldwide, operated by over 75 airlines. These bags have already proven their worth, effectively handling multiple emergencies since 2017 and preventing the need for emergency diversions.

As the situation evolves, passengers are reminded to stay informed about their airline’s policies regarding the MacBook Pro to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience.