EVA Air Implements New Safety Policy: Bluetooth Earphones No Longer Allowed in Checked Baggage
EVA Airways has announced a new safety regulation prohibiting Bluetooth earphones from being placed in checked luggage, citing fire safety concerns. The airline’s spokesperson stated that Bluetooth earphones and similar electronic devices must now be carried in hand luggage only.
UNI Air, another subsidiary of the Evergreen Group, introduced the same policy on October 23. Both airlines explained that portable electronic devices (PEDs) containing lithium batteries pose a potential fire risk and therefore should not be stored in checked baggage.
Unlike wired earphones, Bluetooth earphones operate on lithium batteries and are usually stored in cases that also serve as charging stations. EVA Air and UNI Air noted that these cases do not meet the “fully powered off” condition, classifying them instead as power banks, which must be kept in carry-on baggage.
The airlines also emphasized that spare batteries and portable chargers are strictly prohibited in checked luggage and must be carried onboard.
Similarly, Tigerair has banned Bluetooth earphones from checked baggage, stating that any portable device containing lithium batteries — such as earphone cases or handheld fans — must be transported in hand luggage for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, China Airlines, another major Taiwanese carrier, has not completely banned Bluetooth earphones but advised passengers not to pack them in checked luggage due to their auto-charging feature, recommending they be carried in cabin baggage instead.
Starlux Airlines, on the other hand, has not introduced a specific Bluetooth earphone restriction but reminded passengers that all lithium battery products must comply with United Nations safety standards.
EVA Air’s new rule reflects tightened aviation safety standards amid the widespread use of wireless earphones, underscoring growing industry efforts to minimize onboard fire risks.
