Apple AirTags and Bluetooth smart trackers (like Tile, Samsung SmartTags, and Chipolo) have revolutionized travel by allowing passengers to track their luggage in real time across airports. But do these battery-powered devices violate airline rules on lithium batteries in checked bags?
The definitive answer: Yes! You can put Apple AirTags and Bluetooth trackers in your checked luggage, carry-on bags, and personal item backpacks on all major airlines worldwide.
Quick Rule Summary
- Checked Luggage: ✅ ALLOWED (Official FAA, EASA & IATA approval)
- Carry-On Bags: ✅ ALLOWED
- Battery Type: Single CR2032 Lithium Button Cell (≤ 0.1g lithium metal)
- Airlines Approving AirTags: Air France, Emirates, Lufthansa, Delta, United, American Airlines, British Airways, Singapore Airlines
The Official FAA & ICAO Ruling on Luggage Trackers
When smart luggage trackers first became mainstream, confusion arose because airlines generally prohibit loose lithium-ion batteries in checked baggage due to thermal runaway fire risks.
However, the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) officially clarified safety standards:
[!NOTE] FAA Official Guidance on Luggage Trackers:
Baggage tracking devices powered by small lithium metal coin cells containing 0.3 grams or less of lithium (or lithium-ion cells under 2.7 watt-hours) are completely safe and permitted in checked baggage.A standard Apple AirTag uses a single CR2032 button cell, which contains approximately 0.1 grams of lithium — far below the FAA safety threshold.
Airline Policies for Apple AirTags
| Airline | AirTags in Checked Bags | Official Policy Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Air France | ✅ Allowed | Fully permitted in checked hold luggage and cabin bags |
| Emirates | ✅ Allowed | Approved for passenger luggage tracking |
| Lufthansa | ✅ Allowed | German aviation authorities (LBA) officially confirmed AirTags comply with dangerous goods regulations |
| British Airways | ✅ Allowed | Permitted inside hold luggage and hand baggage |
| Delta / United / American | ✅ Allowed | Standard tracking devices permitted in all luggage |
| Singapore Airlines | ✅ Allowed | Permitted in checked baggage |
Best Tips for Using AirTags While Flying
- Place Inside the Suitcase Lining: Rather than attaching an AirTag solely to the exterior handle (where it can be torn off by baggage conveyor belts), slip an AirTag into an interior zipped pocket of your suitcase.
- Check Battery Health Before Long Trips: A standard CR2032 battery lasts about 1 year. Replace it before embarking on extended international travel.
- Bluetooth Tracking Range: AirTags use the Apple Find My network. When luggage arrives in airport baggage sorting areas, nearby ground crew and baggage handler iPhones securely relay the location to your Find My app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do AirTags interfere with airplane navigation systems?
No. AirTags emit low-power Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals, similar to wireless headphones and heart rate monitors, and do not cause electromagnetic interference with aircraft systems.
Can you put multiple AirTags in one bag?
Yes, you can place multiple trackers (e.g. in your backpack, camera case, and suitcase) without any restriction.
Do I need to turn off my AirTag before checking a suitcase?
No. AirTags are designed to operate continuously and do not need to be turned off or disabled when checking your luggage.