/ Source: Reuters
WASHINGTON— The U.S. Transportation Department said Wednesday it is banning passengers and crew members from carrying e-cigarettes in checked baggage or charging the devices on-board aircraft.
Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx cited a number of recent incidents that show the devices can catch fire during transport.
"Fire hazards in flight are particularly dangerous," Foxx said in a statement Wednesday. "Banning e-cigarettes from checked bags is a prudent and important safety measure."
Passengers may continue to carry e-cigarettes for personal use in carry-on baggage or on their person, but may not use them on flights, Foxx said.