Hong Kong, 22 December 2017  Hong Kong-based airline HK Express, a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), will implement a new policy on the “Acceptance of Smart Baggage with Integrated Lithium Batteries” on 1 January 2018 to address recent developments of innovative baggage with integrated lithium batteries, known as “Smart Baggage”.  The decision is based on the IATA’s guidelines, as adopted by the airline industry for safety management and risk mitigations.

Smart baggage is a category of luggage featuring lithium batteries that power various features and functions, such as GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, electronic baggage tags, scooter capabilities, electronic locks, and power banks (used to charge personal devices), etc. 

“Safety is our top priority at HK Express and we will take every step necessary to ensure world-class safety standards,” said Mr. Li Dianchun, President of HK Express. “With the introduction of the innovative baggage, HK Express must adjust policies to mitigate risk while simultaneously catering to the needs of our guests.”

According to the new policy, smart baggage with non-removable lithium batteries will be prohibited from carriage on HK Express — both as checked-baggage and as a carry-on. If travellers would like to check a smart baggage, the lithium battery must be removed and stored inside a carry-on during the flight.  If a smart baggage with a removable lithium battery is carried as carry-on baggage, the battery should remain installed but all functions of the smart baggage must be switched off during travel.  Every lithium battery in both scenarios is subject to the airline’s existing Lithium Ion Batteries Policy, which is designed based on the IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR).

Until 31 December 2017 inclusive, all smart bags with lithium batteries will be subject to HK Express’ existing Lithium Ion Batteries Policy.

If unsure about their smart baggage or its lithium battery specifications, HK Express guests are recommended to contact HK Express’ Call Centre at +852-3902 0288, or visit the airline’s official website www.hkexpress.com for further details.