Are AirTags Allowed on British Airways?

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Written By Dinu Sri

Dr H. T. D. S. Madusanka is an electronic expert with 10 years of experience, involved in the research and development of SMART HOME systems.

AirTags are prohibited in checked luggage on British Airways flights due to aviation safety regulations concerning lithium batteries. However, the policy is unclear regarding carry-on luggage. The article examines if AirTags are allowed in carry-on bags on British Airways, the risks of using them during air travel, British Airways’ specific policies, reasons travelers may want to use them, and tips for properly using AirTags to track your luggage if permitted in carry-on. It advises directly contacting the airline to understand their exact regulations before traveling with an AirTag.

British Airways aircraft with an AirTag in the foreground.

Are AirTags allowed in checked luggage on British Airways flights?

AirTags are not permitted in checked luggage on British Airways flights due to their lithium battery component. Globally accepted aviation safety regulations necessitate that any device powered by a lithium battery, regardless of its size, be turned off if placed in the baggage hold. Hence, live AirTags, which require being turned on to function, are prohibited in checked luggage across most airlines worldwide, including British Airways​​.

Suitcase with prohibited sign over AirTag

Are AirTags allowed in carry-on luggage on British Airways flights?

While the policy for checked luggage is clear, the allowance of AirTags in carry-on luggage on British Airways flights isn’t explicitly stated in the available resources. However, since the concern revolves around lithium batteries in the cargo hold, it’s plausible that passengers may carry AirTags in their carry-on luggage, where they can ensure the devices remain off. It’s advisable to contact British Airways directly for a definitive answer.

Traveler showing AirTag in carry-on bag at British Airways check-in counter

Is there any risk to using an AirTag on British Airways?

The primary risk associated with using an AirTag on British Airways emerges from its lithium battery, which poses a fire hazard if placed in the baggage hold. This concern extends to all commercial flights in the UK and globally, leading to the prohibition of live AirTags in checked luggage​.

What are the British Airways policies on AirTags?

British Airways, like many other airlines, adheres to international aviation safety standards concerning lithium batteries. These standards lead to the exclusion of live AirTags in checked luggage. While the specific policy regarding carry-on luggage isn’t detailed in available resources, it’s advisable to reach out to British Airways for their exact stance on AirTags.

Why would you want to use an AirTag on British Airways?

Travelers might desire to use AirTags on British Airways to keep track of their belongings during transit. AirTags can provide real-time location updates, offering peace of mind, especially if luggage gets misplaced. A traveler shared an experience on a forum, mentioning how an AirTag in their luggage updated the location every 5-10 minutes as it moved through the airport, presumably as it came within proximity of individuals carrying an iPhone​​.

How to use an AirTag on British Airways

Given the restrictions on checked luggage, if allowed in carry-on, ensure your AirTag is turned off during the flight to comply with airline and aviation safety regulations. Before using an AirTag, it’s prudent to contact British Airways to understand their specific policy on AirTags, ensuring compliance and avoiding any inconvenience during your travel.