Is AirTag Allowed On Planes? | Clear Flying Facts

Understanding AirTags and Airline Policies

Apple AirTags have become a popular choice for keeping track of personal belongings, from luggage to keys. These small, coin-sized devices use Bluetooth technology to help users locate their items via the Find My network. But when it comes to air travel, many wonder: Is AirTag allowed on planes? The straightforward answer is yes, but with important caveats related to airline policies and security regulations.

AirTags contain a small lithium-ion battery, which places them under the category of electronic devices subject to specific airline and TSA rules. Airlines typically allow passengers to carry lithium-ion batteries in carry-on baggage but restrict batteries in checked luggage for safety reasons. Since AirTags are powered by a non-rechargeable CR2032 lithium coin battery—classified as a lithium metal battery—they fall under less stringent regulations compared to larger rechargeable batteries.

However, despite the allowance, travelers should be aware that some airlines may have unique restrictions or require passengers to declare tracking devices during security screening. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits AirTags in both carry-on and checked bags but recommends carrying valuable items like AirTags in carry-on baggage for better protection.

How AirTags Work During Flights

AirTags leverage Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals and Apple’s extensive Find My network to report their location anonymously through nearby Apple devices. This passive tracking system doesn’t emit GPS signals or cellular data independently; instead, it relies on proximity to Apple devices worldwide.

During flights, Bluetooth signals are generally allowed but must be disabled during takeoff and landing as per FAA regulations. Since AirTags operate quietly in the background without active transmissions like cellular phones or Wi-Fi hotspots, they don’t interfere with aircraft systems.

However, passengers should note that airplane mode disables wireless communication on phones or tablets connected to AirTags. This means the Find My app won’t update location data until the device reconnects post-flight. The AirTag itself will continue emitting Bluetooth signals but cannot relay its position without nearby Apple devices scanning for it.

Airline Regulations and Security Screening

Security checkpoints at airports can sometimes cause confusion about carrying electronic tracking devices like AirTags. The TSA’s guidelines classify these gadgets as personal electronic devices that can be carried onboard without restrictions. However, security officers may ask passengers about unfamiliar items during screening.

Since AirTags are small and often attached inside luggage or hidden within other belongings, they rarely attract special attention unless removed from bags or presented separately. It’s advisable to keep your AirTag inside your carry-on or checked bag securely attached so it doesn’t raise alarms.

Some international airlines may have stricter rules regarding electronic devices with batteries due to varying national aviation standards. For instance, certain countries mandate that all lithium metal batteries must be installed in equipment rather than carried as spares in checked baggage. Given an AirTag’s integrated battery design, this usually isn’t an issue unless you bring multiple spare batteries alongside your device.

What Happens If You Forget Your AirTag on a Checked Bag?

Many travelers wonder if leaving an AirTag inside checked luggage is safe or even recommended. From a regulatory standpoint, there’s no ban against placing an AirTag in checked baggage since its battery size falls well below hazardous thresholds.

However, there are practical considerations:

• Tracking Limitations: Airport terminals often lack dense Apple device coverage compared to urban areas, so location updates might be delayed.
• Battery Life: The CR2032 battery lasts roughly one year under normal use; constant Bluetooth activity inside luggage won’t significantly drain it during typical travel durations.
• Theft Deterrence: Having an active tracker inside checked bags can help locate lost or stolen luggage more effectively than traditional tags.

Ultimately, placing an AirTag inside your checked bag is allowed and can provide peace of mind if you’re worried about losing your belongings during transit.

Comparing Tracking Devices: How Does AirTag Stack Up?

The market offers several tracking gadgets designed for travel safety beyond Apple’s ecosystem—Tile trackers and Samsung SmartTags being popular alternatives. Comparing these options helps clarify why travelers might prefer one over another when flying.

Feature	Apple AirTag	Tile Mate	Samsung SmartTag
Battery Type	CR2032 Lithium Coin (replaceable)	CR1632 Lithium Coin (replaceable)	CR2032 Lithium Coin (replaceable)
Network Coverage	Apple Find My Network (millions of devices)	Tile Network (smaller user base)	Samsung SmartThings Network
TSA Compliance	TSA Approved; Allowed On Planes	TSA Approved; Allowed On Planes	TSA Approved; Allowed On Planes
Bluetooth Range	Up to 100 meters (line of sight)	Around 60 meters (line of sight)	Around 120 meters (line of sight)
Loud Speaker Alert	Yes – Emits sound on command	Yes – Emits sound on command	Yes – Emits sound on command

This comparison shows that all three trackers are generally allowed onboard planes under TSA rules because they contain small lithium batteries and don’t actively transmit cellular data independently. However, Apple’s vast Find My network gives its AirTag a distinct edge in locating lost items globally.

The Legal Angle: Aviation Authorities’ Stance on Tracking Devices

Aviation authorities worldwide regulate carry-on electronics primarily based on safety risks associated with batteries and radio frequency emissions. Here’s how major bodies view the presence of tracking devices like AirTags onboard:

• TSA (United States): Permits carrying personal electronic devices including trackers; no explicit ban on Apple AirTags.
• EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency): Allows portable electronic devices with lithium batteries under defined limits; encourages compliance with airline policies.
• Civil Aviation Administration of China: Restricts spare lithium metal batteries in checked baggage but allows installed batteries within devices.
• IATA (International Air Transport Association): Classifies lithium metal batteries below 2 grams as safe for transport in both cabin and hold baggage.

Given these guidelines, carrying an Apple AirTag either attached to your bag or placed inside is widely accepted globally — provided you follow standard airline instructions regarding electronics during flight phases.

The Role of Airline Policies Beyond Regulations

Even though regulatory bodies permit trackers like the AirTag onboard planes, individual airlines maintain discretion over their policies. Some carriers may request passengers switch off Bluetooth devices during critical flight periods or prohibit usage due to interference concerns.

It’s wise to check your airline’s website before traveling if you plan to use an AirTag actively during your journey. Most airlines list accepted electronics clearly under baggage guidelines or passenger information sections.

In rare cases where specific bans exist—for example on certain regional carriers—they usually stem from local aviation authority mandates rather than manufacturer restrictions.

The Practicalities of Using Your AirTag While Flying

Beyond legality lies usability: How effective is an Apple AirTag at helping you track belongings while flying?

• Crowded Airports: Large airports tend to have many Apple device users passing through daily—this density helps update your lost item’s location quickly via crowd-sourced Bluetooth scanning.
• Luggage Handling: Checked bags move through conveyor belts and loading vehicles where physical damage risks exist; having an embedded tracker increases chances of recovery if misplaced.
• Baggage Claim: An active tracker gives real-time updates once your bag arrives at the destination carousel—helpful if bags get delayed or sent elsewhere accidentally.
• Caution Against Over-Reliance: While useful, trackers aren’t foolproof—battery failure or lack of nearby compatible devices can delay location updates.
• Theft Prevention:If someone removes your bag from a public area unexpectedly, the tracker can alert you faster than waiting for airline announcements or lost luggage reports.
• Troubleshooting Tips:If you lose connection mid-trip, try restarting your paired iPhone app after landing or check for software updates ensuring compatibility with airport infrastructure.

The Impact of Flight Mode on Tracking Capabilities

Activating airplane mode disables cellular service but usually leaves Bluetooth functionality optional depending on airline instructions. Since Apple recommends turning off wireless signals entirely during takeoff/landing phases for safety compliance:

• Your iPhone won’t receive live updates from nearby trackers while airborne.
• The physical tracker continues emitting Bluetooth signals passively but cannot transmit location without connection through other Apple devices around it.
• This means real-time tracking only resumes once aircraft lands and passengers enable wireless services again.
• This limitation doesn’t reduce overall usefulness since most lost item recovery occurs post-flight anyway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AirTag allowed on planes in carry-on luggage?

Yes, AirTags are allowed in carry-on luggage. They contain a small lithium coin battery which is generally permitted by airlines and TSA in carry-on bags. Carrying AirTags in your carry-on is recommended to avoid battery restrictions applied to checked baggage.

Is AirTag allowed on planes in checked baggage?

AirTags can be placed in checked baggage, but some airlines have restrictions on lithium metal batteries in checked luggage. It’s safer to keep AirTags in carry-on bags to comply with airline policies and ensure the device remains functional during travel.

Is AirTag allowed on planes according to TSA regulations?

The TSA permits AirTags on planes both in carry-on and checked bags. However, they advise passengers to keep valuable items, including tracking devices like AirTags, with them in the cabin for security and safety reasons.

Is AirTag allowed on planes during takeoff and landing?

During takeoff and landing, FAA regulations require disabling Bluetooth signals. While AirTags emit Bluetooth Low Energy signals, passengers must follow airline instructions and turn off wireless devices when requested to avoid interference with aircraft systems.

Is AirTag allowed on planes without interfering with flight safety?

Yes, AirTags operate quietly using Bluetooth and do not emit GPS or cellular signals independently. They do not interfere with aircraft systems, making them safe to use while flying as long as passengers follow airline electronic device policies.