They look harmless, but they can become a hazard: Batteries, rechargeable batteries and power banks pose a certain risk in aviation. They are prohibited in checked baggage, which is why the staff at the check-in desk will ask travellers if they might be carrying any batteries in their suitcases. Nevertheless, it can happen that passengers forget a battery or a power bank in their checked baggage. In such cases, a suitcase scan before loading onto the aircraft provides assistance, explains Patrick Ehrensperger, specialist for dangerous goods at SWISS: "Batteries can be identified during the scan. The staff will then usually remove them."

At Zurich Airport, an information sheet is placed in the passenger's suitcase in such cases; at some other locations, the luggage may even have to be brought together with its owner. In addition, all cases with prohibited dangerous goods in the suitcase must be reported to the relevant authorities. It is therefore worth keeping an eye when packing to make sure that no batteries or power banks have been placed in the suitcase.

Packing tips from the battery expert

Protect batteries and power banks from short circuits:

• Carry the batteries in their original packaging
  
• Protect batteries with a protective cap
• If you don't have a protective cap, you can also cover the terminals with adhesive tape or pack each battery separately in a plastic bag

Learn more about taking electronic devices and batteries with you here.