Airlines navigate Christmas cracker policies amid holiday travel

Policy

Airbus A380 | Airbus

By Sky Industry News

Dec 22, 2024

Airlines have varying policies regarding Christmas crackers, a festive item that poses challenges for air travel. While snow globes must comply with liquid restrictions and wrapped gifts can complicate security screenings, airlines generally allow solid foods but restrict liquids like alcoholic beverages. During the holiday season, travelers often need clarity on what festive items are permissible on flights.

Aviation authorities regularly update security measures, and while restrictions remain strict, new screening technologies could lead to more lenient rules for festive items. Christmas crackers, popular during the holidays, present particular difficulties due to their classification as minor explosive devices because of the small 'explosive part' they contain.

British Airways permits passengers to carry two boxes of crackers in checked luggage, whereas airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, and Ryanair prohibit them entirely. Passengers should check specific airline policies in advance if they wish to travel with crackers.

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Snow globes are subject to fluid containment rules. Ryanair specifies that snow globes exceeding 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) must be packed in checked luggage. The Transportation Security Administration advises using a simple visual test: if a snow globe is larger than a tennis ball, it should go in checked baggage.

Wrapped gifts also pose challenges at security checkpoints. Aviation security professionals recommend avoiding wrapped presents in both carry-on and checked bags to prevent issues if packages need inspection.

Solid foods like Christmas puddings and cakes are usually allowed on flights. However, liquid or gel-based items such as cranberry sauce must adhere to liquid regulations. Alcoholic beverages between 24% and 70% ABV are permitted up to five liters per person but must be properly packaged and declared.

Holiday decorations typically don't pose problems but require precautions like removing batteries from battery-operated items and packing sharp objects in checked baggage.

To ensure smooth holiday travel:

1. Contact your airline directly about specific rules.

2. Allow extra time for security screening.

3. Consider shipping certain items separately.

4. Keep gift receipts accessible.

5. Pack an empty collapsible bag for additional items on return trips.

Despite these restrictions, airlines embrace the holiday spirit by incorporating festive elements into their operations. Qantas has decorated aircraft with Christmas motifs; Swiss International Air Lines painted aircraft with red nose cones; Emirates revised its menu for the holidays; United Airlines offers "Fantasy Flights" for children and families through partnerships with nonprofits like Make-A-Wish.

These initiatives reflect airlines' commitment to celebrating the holiday season while maintaining safety standards.