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Home > What's New > Lighters Banned From Flights
Lighters Banned From Flights
Posted: Tuesday, March 01, 2005
By Michael Moretti Passengers flying from U.S. airports can no longer carry lighters aboard planes or past security checkpoints.
The Transportation Security Administration announced yesterday that starting April 14, all lighters are banned in airplane cabins. Lighters and wooden strike-anywhere matches have already been barred from checked luggage by the Federal Aviation Administration, but up until now, two non-torch-flame lighters were permitted in carry-on baggage. The intelligence-reform and terrorist prevention bill passed in December eliminated almost all incendiary devices and material from carry-ons, which includes "butane, absorbed-fuel (Zippo-type), electric/battery powered and novelty lighters." For now, only common matches are permitted on board.
If any lighter is discovered in a passenger's luggage, it will be confiscated and destroyed regardless if the lighter is empty. This applies to your run-of-the-mill disposable Djeep or your high-end jewel-encrusted piece. Upon permission from the screener or law enforcement officer who may discover the item, the owner may ship the lighter through a private carrier (the U.S. Postal Service will not ship) for a fee or make other arrangements to withdraw the article from the screening checkpoint. Although, be forewarned that the shipping of hazardous materials raises the price considerably.
The laws are designed to prevent air piracy or the use of a plane as a weapon. Although to some, it seems over-the-top to not allow lighters in checked baggage. An FAA spokesperson said that the substances contained in lighters and strike-anywhere matches are considered to be a hazardous material and have always been banned in checked luggage. These materials can ignite due to the changes in pressure that occur in a pressurized compartment -- such as the luggage bay located in the belly of a passenger airplane -- during a flight. Even empty lighters, according to the FAA, have fumes that can be dangerous.
The rules on cutters will remain the same. Cigar scissors (no pointed tips), guillotine cutters or bullet cutters are permitted in carry-on baggage or in checked baggage. Signs listing the prohibitions will be posted by the TSA at airport security checkpoints.
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