British Airways has clarified that passengers with a popular hobby will not be permitted to carry a certain item in their cabin luggage. The airline responded to safety guidelines after a passenger raised a question on social media.
Passenger Inquiry on Social Media
On X, a customer asked British Airways whether they could pack a foldable hiking pole in their cabin bag. Hiking poles, also known as trekking poles, are commonly used by passengers planning walking holidays. These accessories help reduce strain during steep climbs and improve balance and stability.
However, airline passengers must be cautious when packing their equipment ahead of holidays. The airline clarified the rules on social media after a customer sought guidance in an X post. Reaching out via @British_Airways, the passenger inquired about safety guidelines.
The customer wrote: "So it seems I can take sharp pointy knitting needles in my cabin luggage (should my hobby be knitting! Which it isn't) but not my foldable hiking pole (which fits inside my cabin bag) with a tiny metal tip, when my hobby is walking in the mountains! Please explain."
British Airways replied: "Hi there. Hiking poles are not permitted in cabin baggage due to security and safety guidelines. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. Claire M."
Official Guidelines on Sharp Items
On its website, the airline explains that any item with a sharp point or cutting edge that could cause serious injury must be packed in checked baggage stored in the hold. This includes items such as ice axes and ice picks.
The British Airways website states: "You can take small foldable umbrellas and walking sticks (excluding hiking poles and other items with sharp ends) in your hand baggage. Items with sharp ends, such as hiking poles, must be packed in your checked baggage."
However, British Airways says knitting needles and crochet hooks are allowed. These items can be packed in hand luggage or checked luggage.
Additional Information on Restricted Items
Full information about restricted and prohibited items is available on the British Airways website. The airline says: "To ensure the safety and security of our customers and our crew, we won't allow you to carry any other article that the airport manager or aircraft operator has reason to believe might be used or adapted for causing injury or incapacitation of a person, or endanger an aircraft."
Restrictions may also apply to other sporting items, such as large equipment and rescue packs. Passengers needing additional information can contact the airline's Safety Team with their booking reference.
British Airways has been approached for comment.
