Australian-based airlines ban all MacBooks from checked-in luggage

Apple had recently issued a recall for selected 15″ MacBook Pro units as the battery could potentially overheat and pose a fire safety risk. Although it only affects a limited number of units sold between September 2015 and February 2017, several Australian-based airlines are taking extra precaution.

On Virgin Australia, all Apple MacBooks are not permitted in checked-in luggage until further notice. However, you are still allowed to bring your MacBook in your carry-on luggage.

Australian flag-carrier Qantas and its low-cost subsidiary, Jetstar, have also taken a similar move but you can’t use your MacBook throughout the flight. According to a statement issued to News.com.au, all Apple MacBook Pros are banned from checked-in baggage until further notice. The statement also mentions “All Apple MacBook Pros must be carried in cabin baggage and switched off for flight following a recall notice issued by Apple.”

Earlier this month, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has banned affected MacBook Pro units from all US flights. This means if your MacBook Pro is listed under the recall program, you are not allowed to check-in it or carry onboard for US-based flights unless the battery has been replaced.

Prior to that, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has also issued a safety notice for the recalled MacBook Pro as well. If the affected MacBook Pro is brought on board, it is required to be switched off and you are not allowed to use or charge the device throughout the flight.

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