EASA issues safety warning over portable electronic devices on aircraft

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The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has warned that portable electronic devices (PEDs) containing lithium batteries should be kept in passenger cabins to avoid the risk of fire in the cargo hold. While it does not mention the recent restrictions placed on tablets and laptops implemented by the UK and US from various mostly Middle Eastern countries, it looks to be a direct response to them.

While EASA recommends passengers retain their devices, it notes that where they are forbidden to, passengers must ensure they are switched off and protected from accidental activation. It also said that PEDs placed in checked baggage must be protected from damage by applying suitable packaging or by being placed in a rigid bag protected by adequate cushioning such as clothing.

It added: “PEDs should be dispersed in the cargo hold, avoiding consolidation in a single container or location and, when practicable, away from any other dangerous goods.”

Australia this week added an additional layer of screening for PEDs on direct flights from the UAE and Qatar, two countries not on the UK’s list.

ATW has published an interesting comment on the situation, asking whether passengers are effectively being forced to choose between a bomb or a fire on board.