How to tell your battery is 'too dangerous for plane' after CAA warning

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issued a warning to passengers after 650 cases in a year involving lithium batteries packed in hold luggage, which led to flights being delayed or diverted and bags being removed. The regulator said the risk from batteries in phones, vapes, power banks and other devices is now the biggest single threat to UK flights. It warned that rechargeable lithium batteries found in tablets and laptops can create an uncontrollable fire risk if put in checked baggage. Electrical Safety First identified signs that a battery may be hazardous, highlighting power banks that bulge, swell, or change shape. The guidance urges passengers to never pack power banks in checked luggage, only carry them in the cabin, and alert airline staff immediately if damage appears during travel.