AirAsia has announced that lithium battery powered transportation is now banned from all flights effective today. This covers hoverboards, Segways, mini-Segways, electronic scooters, solowheels, airwheels, balance wheels and similar equipment; making the airline the latest company to clamp down on these devices.
The ban appears to have been made in the interest of safety, although it has issued a statement saying that exceptions would be made for battery powered wheelchairs or mobility devices.
“Under certain circumstances, the carriage of battery operated wheelchairs or mobility devices might be accepted, subject to removal of the battery by guests. The maximum weight allowed for wheelchairs and mobility devices is 85kg.”
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Battery powered transportation is becoming increasingly popular, although many transportation companies have been watching them with a wary eye. The problem stems from the danger posed by the lithium batteries, which are at risk of catching fire while airborne; as was demonstrated when a lithium powered e-cigarette caught fire on a Malindo airlines flight shortly after leaving Kota Kinabalu. It is for this very reason that devices like laptops and power banks are not allowed as checked in luggage.
AirAsia joins a list of over 60 airlines that have already banned hoverboards and their ilk from flights. A list that includes Malaysia Airlines, Virgin Australia, Emirates, and KLM. It isn’t just airlines that are concerned over the safety of hoverboards, as Amazon has also banned the transportation devices from being sold on its site as well.
[Source: Bernama]
