Everand Logo

Welcome to Everand!

  • NPR

    Airlines Restrict 'Smart Luggage' Over Fire Hazards Posed By Batteries

    Today's suitcases can charge your phone, track their location and even propel themselves behind you. But concerns about their batteries igniting in cargo holds have led airlines to issue new policies.
    by Laurel Wamsley Dec 06, 2017 2 minutes
    Three major U.S. airlines have announced new restrictions on "smart luggage" because of the fire hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries in cargo holds. The airlines say any such batteries need to be removable.

    Airlines including American, Delta and Alaska have announced restrictions on so-called smart luggage because the lithium-ion batteries found in many of these suitcases pose a fire risk.

    These kinds of bags have proliferated in recent years, including motorized suitcases you can ride and one pitched as an autonomous "robot companion" that follows you around.

    Prices can range from to , depending on a bag's bells and whistles,

    You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

    More from NPR

    NPR4 min readWorld
    China Launches A New Crew To Its Space Station, Advancing Toward Lunar Mission
    Three astronauts will spend six months on China's space station. Some experts worry China's ambitious space program could pose a threat to U.S. space superiority and military effectiveness.
    NPR5 min readFinance & Money Management
    Housing Experts Say There Just Aren't Enough Homes In The U.S.
    The United States is millions of homes short of demand, and lacks enough affordable housing units. And many Americans feel like housing costs are eating up too much of their take-home pay.
    NPR4 min readInternational Relations
    An American Hostage Is Seen Alive For The First Time Since Oct. 7 In A Hamas Video
    Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who turned 24 last month while in captivity, has spent more than 200 days in captivity. His left arm was partially blown off by a grenade during the Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7.

    Related Books & Audiobooks