Lighters Let Back On Board

Michael Moretti
Posted: May 17, 2005

Once considered too dangerous for air travel in light of the threat of terrorist attacks, lighters are now being let back on board airplanes.

The Transportation and Security Administration announced this week that all lighters are still banned from carry-on baggage, but lighters without fuel will be permitted in checked bags. Lighters with fuel remain off-limits anywhere on the plane. Strike-anywhere matches are still prohibited in checked bags as well. Four books of common safety matches are permitted as carry-on items.

This latest revision slightly loosens restrictions laid down by the intelligence reform and terrorist prevention bill. Prior, up to two non-torch-flame lighters were allowed in carry-on bags. After the regulation went into effect on April 14, all lighters -- from the run-of-the-mill Djeep disposable to the high-end bejeweled models -- became illegal on flights.

Penalties for breaking the rules remain the same. According to the TSA, the mere act of bringing banned objects and substances to the airport security checkpoint can result in criminal or civil prosecution.

For further coverage of this topic, get the next issue of Cigar Insider.