The Federal Aviation Administration just released a warning that certain MacBook Pro Laptops are not allowed on flights due to “battery” issues. It was not too long ago that some other laptops, including certain models made by HP, have also been banned from air travel. This can be a big problem for attorneys on the go!

You do not want to find yourself at the airport deciding if you should leave your laptop behind at the security area (which I do not recommend; besides the financial loss, there is a massive liability exposure with your clients and the bar if you lose your entrusted client-privileged material). Nor do you want to be deciding if you should run back to the office or home to drop off your laptop and rush back hoping you make the next flight in time for your meeting: A meeting to be conducted without your laptop (and essential meeting information). You will likely have to cancel your trip and related business. And hopefully, you can recover the lost ”business” due to your failure to properly prepare for travel. Overall, this is not a good scenario to find yourself in, ever.🙄

Finding out if your laptop is banned from air travel is not an easy task. The problem is the the FAA’s main warning is too general:

“If a product that is dangerous goods or that contains a dangerous goods component (e.g., battery) is subject to a safety recall related to the dangerous goods, it must not be carried aboard an aircraft or in baggage unless the recalled product/component has been replaced or repaired or otherwise made safe per manufacturer/vendor instructions. The FAA and your airline may offer further public guidance on individual recalled products.“

The FAA as well as the TSA’s websites do not offer a specific list of what laptops are banned on carry on and checked bags.😳

So, its up to you to check with the manufacture and make sure your laptop, tablet or phone battery has no recalls. And if you are flying internationally, check with the destination (and layover) country’s respective government aviation website. Be sure to plan ahead!

Safe travels!