Taking Your Vape onto a Plane: Is it Allowed?
E-cigarettes, popularly known as vapes, are extremely common these days. In fact, a 2018 study shows that about 1 in 20 Americans use vaping devices, while 1 in 3 users vape daily.
Initially, vapes were advertised to chronic smokers as alternatives to smoking cigarettes, but over the years, people of all ages have gotten their hands on these devices.
While vape products are allowed in various public places, you may wonder if they are allowed on airplanes. After all, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) imposes tight restrictions on seemingly harmless products such as hygiene and food. Those restrictions mostly concern carry-on bags as opposed to checked bags, but the bottom line is airport security does not mess around.
This brings us to the question, “Are vapes allowed on planes?”
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), battery-powered e-cigarettes, vaporizers, vape pens, atomizers, and electronic nicotine delivery systems are only allowed in the aircraft cabin in your carry-on baggage or on your person, NOT in checked luggage. You must remember to remove your vape and related accessories from your carry-on bag if you’re getting checked in at the gate or planeside. In other words, vapes are allowed on planes.
What about vaping liquids? These products are subject to the same restrictions as any other liquid you bring in your carry-on bags. As such, you are allowed to bring 3.4 ounces (100 ml) of vaping liquid in your carry-on. Keep in mind that while you are allowed to bring these items on a plane, you may not smoke your vape under any circumstances. Smoking is strictly prohibited on aircrafts.
It’s also important to note that certain airlines impose restrictions on vapes, therefore, you should check with your airline beforehand. Keep in mind that the country you are traveling to may have laws against vaping or vape products altogether, so be sure to do your research on those laws, or else you may get arrested.
Penalties for Breaking TSA Rules
If you fail to comply with the rules above, TSA may impose civil penalties of up to $13,669 per violation per person. If you repeatedly violate TSA rules, including ones concerning e-cigarette products, you will be subject to higher penalties.
These fines are entirely avoidable if you plan ahead and call your airline about bringing vape products in your carry-on bags. Not only will you save yourself time but also thousands of dollars. Don’t forget to research the laws in the state or country in which you are flying to, as you could face criminal charges for bringing your vape and related accessories where they are not allowed.
The Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella is a criminal defense firm serving clients throughout Milwaukee. The content in this blog is for information purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice or constitute an attorney-client relationship. If you have any questions about how we can serve you, please contact us at (414) 882-8382!