Aside from weapons, and items that may be used as weapons, which are occasionally confiscated during passenger screening, there are many items which are carried which can be hazardous in flight. These dangerous items which can sometimes seem so innocent usually make up the bulk of confiscated items during passenger and luggage screening.

What Are Dangerous Goods?

There are many articles and substances - seemingly innocent - which can create a hazard when transported by air. Some, such as explosives or radioactive materials one would readily recognise as dangerous, but because of variations in pressure and temperature in flight, many otherwise harmless items can become dangerous. These include such items as books of matches, aerosols and mercury thermometers, to name a few.

Most items identified as dangerous goods can be carried safely, provided they are properly packed and provided the quantities in each package are kept within prescribed limits.

Forbidden Goods

Some items, such as highly explosive materials, some radioactive materials, infected live animals, and some liquids with highly toxic fumes are forbidden in the aircraft under any circumstances.

On the other hand, the items listed below are forbidden in hand luggage or luggage destined for the hold of an aircraft, but may be shipped as cargo, if properly packed and declared.

There is provision for small quantities of the following types of dangerous goods to be carried by passengers or crew.