Fact Check: Are aerosols allowed on planes?

Are Aerosols Allowed on Planes?

Introduction

The claim in question revolves around the regulations concerning the transport of aerosols on commercial flights. Specifically, it seeks to clarify whether passengers are permitted to bring aerosol products onboard airplanes, and if so, under what conditions. This inquiry is particularly relevant for travelers who may wish to carry personal care items, cleaning products, or other aerosol-based products during their journeys.

What We Know

1. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Regulations: According to the TSA, passengers are allowed to bring aerosols in their carry-on luggage, provided that each container does not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and that all aerosols are placed in a quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag for screening purposes 25.

2. Checked Baggage: The TSA guidelines also state that aerosols can be included in checked baggage, although there are additional restrictions for certain types of aerosols, particularly those that are flammable or hazardous 410.

3. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Guidelines: The FAA provides information on hazardous materials, including aerosols, indicating that non-flammable aerosols may be transported under specific conditions 4. The FAA emphasizes the importance of checking the classification of aerosols to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

4. International Regulations: Different countries may have varying regulations regarding aerosols. For instance, New Zealand's aviation authority allows aerosols in carry-on luggage but limits the total volume and size of individual containers 7.

5. General Safety Concerns: The overarching reason for these restrictions is safety. Aerosols can pose risks if they are flammable or if they contain hazardous materials, leading to stringent regulations to mitigate potential dangers during air travel 10.

Analysis

The sources cited provide a comprehensive overview of the regulations surrounding aerosols on planes, but their reliability and potential biases must be critically evaluated:

• TSA and FAA Sources: The TSA and FAA are authoritative government agencies responsible for aviation security and safety in the United States. Their guidelines are based on extensive research and are regularly updated to reflect current safety standards. However, as government entities, they may also be subject to bureaucratic limitations and may not always provide the most user-friendly interpretations of their rules.

• Aviation Authorities from Other Countries: The information from New Zealand's aviation authority is credible but may not directly apply to travelers flying in or out of the U.S. or other jurisdictions. International travelers should be aware that regulations can differ significantly from one country to another.

• Travel and Aviation Websites: Sources like Executive Flyers and Upon Arriving provide practical advice for travelers but may lack the authoritative weight of government sources. These sites often summarize existing regulations and may include anecdotal evidence or personal experiences, which can introduce bias or inaccuracies.

• Conflict of Interest: Some travel-related websites may have a vested interest in promoting certain products or services, which could influence the objectivity of their content. It is essential to cross-reference their claims with official guidelines to ensure accuracy.

• Methodology: The TSA's methodology for determining what can be brought on planes is based on safety assessments and risk evaluations. However, the specifics of these assessments are not always disclosed, which can leave gaps in understanding the rationale behind certain regulations.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence supports the conclusion that passengers are allowed to bring aerosols on planes, subject to specific regulations. The TSA permits aerosols in carry-on luggage as long as each container does not exceed 3.4 ounces and is placed in a quart-sized plastic bag. Additionally, aerosols can be included in checked baggage, although restrictions apply to flammable or hazardous types.

It is important to note that while the TSA and FAA provide clear guidelines, travelers should be aware of potential variations in regulations when flying internationally. The safety concerns surrounding aerosols are valid, as they can pose risks if not properly managed.

However, the available evidence does have limitations, particularly regarding the specifics of safety assessments and the potential for differing regulations in other countries. Travelers are encouraged to verify the latest guidelines from official sources before their journey.

Readers should critically evaluate information themselves and remain informed about the regulations that may affect their travel plans.

Sources

1. Air Travel | Yellow Book - CDC: Link
2. Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels Rule - TSA: Link
3. Travelers - Federal Aviation Administration: Link
4. PackSafe - Aerosols - Federal Aviation Administration: Link
5. Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels Rule - TSA: Link
6. What Can I Bring? - Transportation Security Administration: Link
7. Aerosols - aviation.govt.nz: Link
8. Can You Bring Aerosols on a Plane? (Rules and Regulations) - Executive Flyers: Link
9. TSA Liquid Rules Ultimate Guide (3-1-1 Explained) - Upon Arriving: Link
10. Can You Bring Aerosol Cans On A Plane? TSA Rules in 2023 - Air Travel Questions: Link