Delta restricts 'smart bags' with lithium-ion batteries

Delta Air Lines said it will no longer accept "smart bag" luggage with lithium-ion batteries that can't be removed, due to the risk of fire.

Atlanta-based Delta said the restriction will take effect Jan. 15, 2018 for checked and carry-on bags. The move comes after American Airlines announced a similar smart bags ban.

Delta said smart bags will be allowed if the batteries can be removed and taken on board by the customer, similar to its existing policy requiring passengers to put spare lithium-ion batteries in their carry-on bags.

The airline banned hoverboards in 2015, and said the International Air Transport Association has given guidance on restricting smart bags.

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Delta adding 'fire containment' bags to fleet Delta is banning smart bags with non-removable lithium-ion batteries to reduce the fire hazard risk.

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