The Dangerous Reason You Should Think Twice Before Doing This On An Airplane

Taking a vape hit on an airplane has serious repercussions. As electronic cigarettes have become increasingly popular in recent years, safety and health regulations have been put in place. In 2016, the U.S. Department of Transportation set an official ban on e-cigarette use during commercial flights. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx explained, "This final rule is important because it protects airline passengers from unwanted exposure to electronic cigarette aerosol that occurs when electronic cigarettes are used onboard airplanes." The release of toxic chemicals in an enclosed space can wreak havoc on passengers.

In addition to health concerns, vaping on an airplane comes with a hefty price. A Federal Aviation Administration rep told Newsweek, "Passengers who violate federal vaping laws could face fines up to $1,771." In 2019, CNN reported that a vaping passenger was permanently banned from Spirit Airlines after setting off the plane's smoke alarm.

Another reason to refrain from in-flight vaping? The act can result in major delays. In a 2020 TikTok video, flight attendant Natalie Magee described common protocol for vaping on an airplane. "That airplane is grounded for a minimum of about two hours because they have to do a complete overhaul of the systems and the engines and everything like that," she said. Beyond all of these significant consequences, it's even incredibly dangerous to vape while flying. Here's why.

In most cases, lithium batteries activate electronic smoking devices by forming a heated nicotine vapor for users to inhale. When such vaping devices are used or charged on airplanes, the power source poses a hazard of smoke, fire, and extreme heat, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. In 2022, in-flight lithium battery incidents were primarily caused by vapes. Simply sneaking a few hits in the restroom is very risky. 

Passengers should be extra careful when packing their vapes in carry-on bags. In 2023, a fire erupted on a Spirit Airlines flight and sent 10 people to the hospital, per The Independent. A retired firefighter on the flight, who helped extinguish the fire, revealed, "What it was, was a battery-powered vape tied to a battery charging inside the compartment. Very dangerous. And it ignited a piece of luggage next to it." 

It's important to note that packing vapes in checked luggage is not permitted, according to the Transportation Security Administration. Per Becker Law Office, Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said, "We know from recent incidents that e-cigarettes in checked bags can catch fire during transport." Long story short: Consider leaving that vape at home.