Can You Use Electronic Cigarettes on a Plane?

One great benefit of electronic cigarettes is that they can be used in many places where traditional smoking is prohibited. Such places include restaurants, workplaces, bars, many airports, and in a few instances, airplanes.

However, commercial airlines in the United States do not allow electronic cigarettes to be used on their planes. Policies for private and charter planes vary depending on their owners–but some do allow electronic cigarettes to be used on their planes.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, individual U.S. air carriers devise their own policies on allowing the use of electronic cigarettes on airplanes—and none allow such use. The major reason many airlines give is for consistency and to avoid confusing passengers because tobacco-based cigarettes are forbidden.

Electronic cigarettes are fine to be brought on many commercial planes, though, and many airports allow them to be used inside the airports. The Transportation Security Administration states that no specific rule forbids travelers from passing through security checkpoints with electronic cigarettes.

Even then, each airline has its guidelines as to whether electronic cigarettes can be part of carry-on or checked luggage. Some do not allow it for one or both.

Travelers should check with airlines to make certain of these guidelines. The TSA does say that placing an electronic cigarette in carry-on luggage is preferable than to checked luggage for reasons of safety and practicality.

For example, if you put your electronic cigarette in checked luggage, it risks being impounded because you will not be around to answer questions if it triggers concerns for the airline at any of the several checkpoint inspections.

If you are bringing an electronic cigarette onto a plane, make your trip easier by putting your electronic cigarette inside a carry-on when you pass through airport security. X-rays and metal detectors will pick up on the cigarette’s presence because of the electronic cigarette’s battery and shape.

It is possible that security officials will ask you to retrieve the cigarette to show them.

So next time you’re traveling for business or pleasure, don’t forget your e-cig!