RDM warns travelers about new lithum-ion battery rules
Redmond Municipal Airport said it was notified Friday of new carry-on and checked baggage restrictions being enforced by air carriers and the Federal Aviation Administration, particularly restrictions on flying with items that have lithium-ion batteries — and a ban on hoverboards
“These agencies are enforcing restrictions for items allowed for transport onboard passenger aircraft, particularly lithium ion batteries. The restrictions are effective immediately,” the airport said.
When traveling (carry-on or checked baggage) with battery-operated items that can generate heat or potentially produce sparks, “be sure to remove the batteries,” the airport said.
“Batteries must be packed in a manner to preventing a short circuit by putting them in a separate pouch with their terminals covered with tape. Hoverboards are NOT permitted to fly.”
The airport said safety concerns due to the batteries have prompted several airlines — including Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines, United Airlines and Virgin America — to ban allowing hoverboards on board in carry-ons or checked baggage.
Remember to check with your air carrier about items allowed in carry-ons and in checked baggage. For more details, visit www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/hazmat_safety/more_info/?hazmat=7.
Avoid frustration during the Holiday travel season with these tips. Do not wrap gifts prior to your flight, officials reminded.
The Transportation Security Admiration enforces restrictions to carry-on items, liquids, gels and pastes must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less and all must fit in one quart size clear bag, one per passenger. Jams, jellies and peanut butter are examples of items considered to be a gel or paste that are prohibited in a carry-on, but can travel in checked baggage.
RDM is expecting a record number of travelers over the upcoming holidays and said to allow plenty of time prior to scheduled departure. Be prepared for possible snow or ice conditions on roads, parking lots and walkways.
Some air carriers close passengers and checked baggage processing forty minutes prior to departure. Passengers are encourage to check-in and proceed through the passenger screening checkpoint ninety minutes prior to departure time.
The Airport’s website, www.flyrdm.com, provides links and contact information for air carriers, TSA and FAA websites where additional information and flight status can be found.
