New rule tightens restrictions on lithium batteries on airplanes

Starting Tuesday, airline passengers will no longer be allowed to pack loose lithium batteries in checked luggage, under new transportation laws aimed at reducing the risk of battery fires.

However, the law that kicks in Jan. 1 does permit passengers to carry up to two spare extended-life rechargeable lithium batteries in carry-on bags as long as they are in their original packaging or in a plastic zipper bag, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

Checked bags can contain batteries already installed in gadgets such as cameras, DVD players or laptop computers, according to the DOT.

Lithium batteries have been a concern because they can overheat and ignite in certain conditions.

Last year, at least one airline banned passengers from using laptop computers that had been on a battery recall list amid fears the batteries could overheat and burst into flames.