The cases have grown in popularity in the US, but American Airlines fears that the batteries could pose a fire risk.
Charging devices on carry-on luggage will have to be turned off when the new rules come into force on January 15, the airline said.
“Due to a potential safety hazard, ‘Smart’ bags (luggage with charging devices) can’t fly unless the battery can be removed,” American Airlines said on its website.
Although American is the first carrier to impose these new restrictions others are expected to follow as the bags become more commonplace.
British Airways, in common with other airlines, already has restrictions in place for lithium batteries – although it has not introduced restrictions, as yet, for “smart luggage”.
On carry-on luggage, BA requires the batteries to be kept in the device – such as a phone or camera. It also imposes a limit of four spare batteries per person. They also have to be insulated from contact with metal.
Spare lithium-ion batteries are completely banned from checked-in suitcases.
Article Appeared @http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/12/01/american-airlines-impose-curbs-smart-bags/