Posted 19 Nov 2009

Those heading home from their gap years abroad to relax and catch up with family over the festive season have been advised to make sure they check their luggage for prohibited items.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), many people are unaware of current baggage restrictions and may buy Christmas gifts for their loved-ones that cannot be transported.

Particularly, the CAA is advising people to check batteries, as counterfeit versions have caused fires in recent times.

Additionally, a box of matches caught fire in a passengers’ bag in Palma Airport earlier this year, the organisation pointed out.

"People still need to be reminded that some items that are relatively innocuous in everyday use are restricted from carriage on board an aircraft," explained manager of the dangerous goods office at the CAA.

Items such as Sharp skateboards and fishing rods, as well as sharp objects including open razors and scissors longer than 3 cm, are all articles that are not permitted to be carried on board a plane.

Category: General Travel