Taiwan's Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) has announced that heated tobacco products will be banned on board aircraft throughout the flight from December 1, while e-cigarettes remain banned for the entire flight. The move aligns with the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act and reflects concerns that emerging tobacco and similar products could endanger flight safety.
The CAA said using such products can produce a source of fire and smoke and may raise aircraft maintenance costs, threatening flight safety and emergency evacuation. Violators face up to five years' imprisonment, detention, or a fine of up to NT$150,000 under Article 102 of the Civil Aviation Act; causing a death carries life imprisonment or at least seven years, and causing serious injury carries three to ten years.
Passengers should check the rules on their airline's website or at the check-in counter before flying, the CAA said, and keep e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and related items switched off for the entire flight to help keep the cabin safe and comfortable.