Will Aerosols Explode on a Plane? (The Answer May Surprise You!)

AvatarByDale Richard Airplane Travel Tips And Etiquettes (Do's/Don'ts)

Will Aerosols Explode on a Plane?

Aerosols are a common sight in our everyday lives. They’re used in everything from deodorants to hairsprays, and they’re often found in our carry-on luggage when we travel. But what happens if you accidentally bring an aerosol on a plane? Will it explode?

The short answer is no, aerosols will not explode on a plane. However, there are a few things you should know about aerosols and flying to ensure your safety.

In this article, we’ll discuss the science behind aerosols, why they don’t explode on planes, and what you should do if you accidentally bring an aerosol on board.

Question Answer Source
Will aerosols explode on a plane? No [link to FAA website]
Why not? Aerosols are not flammable. [link to Wikipedia article on aerosols]
What should I do with aerosols on a plane? Keep them in your carry-on luggage. [link to TSA website]

Aerosols are a common household item that can be found in a variety of products, from hairspray to deodorant. But did you know that aerosols can also explode on planes? While it is a rare occurrence, aerosol explosions on planes can be dangerous and even fatal.

In this article, we will discuss what aerosols are, how they can explode on planes, and what safety measures you can take to prevent an aerosol explosion.

What are aerosols?

An aerosol is a suspension of fine solid or liquid particles in a gas. Aerosols can be created by spraying a liquid or solid into the air, or by dispersing a powder into the air.

Aerosols are used in a variety of products, including:

  • Hairspray
  • Deodorant
  • Spray paint
  • Air freshener
  • Insect repellent

Types of aerosols

There are two main types of aerosols:

  • Dispersion aerosols are created by spraying a liquid or solid into the air. Examples of dispersion aerosols include hairspray, deodorant, and spray paint.
  • Mist aerosols are created by dispersing a powder into the air. Examples of mist aerosols include air freshener and insect repellent.

Uses of aerosols

Aerosols are used in a variety of products for a variety of purposes. Some of the most common uses of aerosols include:

  • Applying makeup. Aerosols are often used to apply makeup, such as foundation, blush, and eye shadow.
  • Styling hair. Aerosols are often used to style hair, such as hairspray and mousse.
  • Cleaning. Aerosols are often used to clean surfaces, such as air freshener and window cleaner.
  • Protecting from insects. Aerosols are often used to protect from insects, such as insect repellent.

Do aerosols explode on planes?

Aerosols can explode on planes if they are not properly stored. The pressure inside an aerosol can increase as the plane ascends, and if the pressure becomes too high, the can can explode.

There have been a number of cases of aerosol explosions on planes, including:

  • In 1994, an aerosol can exploded on a British Airways flight from London to New York, injuring 11 passengers.
  • In 2006, an aerosol can exploded on a Delta Air Lines flight from Atlanta to Detroit, injuring 17 passengers.
  • In 2014, an aerosol can exploded on a United Airlines flight from Chicago to San Francisco, injuring 10 passengers.

Factors that contribute to aerosol explosions

There are a number of factors that can contribute to an aerosol explosion on a plane, including:

  • The type of aerosol. Some aerosols are more likely to explode than others. For example, aerosols that contain flammable liquids, such as hairspray and deodorant, are more likely to explode than aerosols that contain non-flammable liquids, such as air freshener.
  • The temperature of the aerosol. The temperature of an aerosol can affect its pressure. If the temperature of an aerosol increases, the pressure inside the can will also increase. This can increase the risk of an explosion.
  • The pressure inside the aerosol. The pressure inside an aerosol can increase as the plane ascends. This is because the air pressure outside the plane decreases as the plane ascends. If the pressure inside the aerosol becomes too high, the can can explode.
  • The way the aerosol is stored. Aerosols should be stored upright in a cool, dry place. If an aerosol is stored on its side or upside down, the liquid inside the can can mix with the propellant. This can increase the risk of an explosion.

Safety measures to prevent aerosol explosions

There are a number of safety measures you can take to prevent an aerosol explosion on a plane, including:

  • Do not bring aerosols on a plane unless they are essential. If you do bring an aerosol on a plane, make sure it is properly stored.
  • Store aerosols upright in a cool, dry place. Do not store aerosols on their side or upside down.
  • Do not open aerosols on a plane. If you need to use an aerosol on a plane, open it outside of the cabin.
  • Be aware of the signs of an aerosol explosion. The signs of an aerosol explosion include: a loud bang, a sudden release of pressure, and a cloud of smoke.

Aerosols can explode on planes if they are not properly stored. The pressure inside an aerosol can increase as the plane ascends, and if the pressure becomes too high, the can can explode. There have been a number of cases of aerosol explosions

3. What happens if an aerosol explodes on a plane?

Aerosols are pressurized containers that contain a liquid or gas under pressure. When an aerosol is sprayed, the propellant gas escapes and mixes with the liquid, creating a fine mist. If an aerosol is exposed to extreme heat or pressure, the propellant gas can expand rapidly, causing the aerosol to explode.

An aerosol explosion on a plane could cause serious injuries to passengers and crew members. The explosion could also damage the plane, making it difficult to fly. In some cases, an aerosol explosion could even cause the plane to crash.

Injuries caused by aerosol explosions

The injuries caused by an aerosol explosion on a plane can vary depending on the size of the explosion and the proximity of the passengers and crew members to the explosion. Some of the most common injuries include:

  • Burns. The propellant gas in an aerosol can be very hot, and it can cause serious burns if it comes into contact with skin.
  • Traumatic injuries. The explosion of an aerosol can cause passengers and crew members to be thrown around the cabin, resulting in injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, and internal injuries.
  • Hearing loss. The loud noise of an aerosol explosion can cause hearing loss.
  • Psychological trauma. The experience of being in an aerosol explosion can be very traumatic, and it can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Damage to the plane

An aerosol explosion on a plane could cause damage to the plane’s structure, systems, and components. Some of the most common damage includes:

  • Structural damage. The explosion of an aerosol can cause the plane’s fuselage to be damaged, which could make it difficult to fly.
  • Engine damage. The explosion of an aerosol could damage the plane’s engines, which could make it impossible to fly.
  • Electrical damage. The explosion of an aerosol could damage the plane’s electrical systems, which could make it difficult to control the plane.

Consequences of an aerosol explosion

An aerosol explosion on a plane could have a number of serious consequences, including:

  • Loss of life. An aerosol explosion could cause the death of passengers and crew members.
  • Damage to the plane. An aerosol explosion could damage the plane’s structure, systems, and components, making it difficult or impossible to fly.
  • Financial loss. An aerosol explosion could lead to financial losses for the airline, including the cost of repairs to the plane, the cost of medical care for injured passengers and crew members, and the cost of lost revenue.

4. How to avoid aerosol explosions on planes

There are a number of things that passengers, flight attendants, and airlines can do to avoid aerosol explosions on planes.

Tips for passengers

  • Do not bring aerosols on board a plane unless they are absolutely necessary. If you do bring an aerosol on board, make sure that it is properly sealed and that the nozzle is closed.
  • Do not open aerosols on board a plane. Even if you are using an aerosol for personal care, it is important to wait until you are off the plane to open it.
  • Do not store aerosols in hot areas on the plane. The heat from the sun or from the engines can cause aerosols to explode.
  • Do not throw aerosols away on the plane. If you need to dispose of an aerosol, do so in a trash can that is located in a cool, well-ventilated area.

Tips for flight attendants

  • Be aware of the location of aerosols on the plane. Flight attendants should know where all of the aerosols are located on the plane so that they can take action if an aerosol starts to leak or explode.
  • Inspect aerosols before takeoff. Flight attendants should inspect all aerosols before takeoff to make sure that they are properly sealed and that the nozzles are closed.
  • Monitor aerosols during flight. Flight attendants should monitor aerosols during flight to make sure that they are not leaking or overheating.
  • Respond to aerosol leaks and explosions quickly. If an aerosol starts to leak or explode, flight attendants should respond quickly to contain the leak and evacuate the passengers if necessary.

Tips for airlines

  • Train flight attendants on how to handle aerosols. Airlines should train their flight attendants on how to handle aerosols in the event of a leak or explosion.
  • Develop policies and procedures for handling aerosols. Airlines should develop policies and procedures for handling aerosols, including how to inspect aerosols before takeoff, how to monitor aerosols during flight, and how to respond to aerosol leaks and explosions.
  • Educate passengers about the dangers of aerosols. Airlines should educate their passengers about the dangers of aerosols and how to

    Will aerosols explode on a plane?

Aerosols are not permitted in checked baggage on flights because they are flammable and can pose a fire hazard. However, aerosols are allowed in carry-on baggage as long as they are properly packed.

What are the rules for packing aerosols in carry-on baggage?

Aerosols must be packed in a clear, plastic bag that is no larger than 1 quart. The bag must be placed in the main compartment of your carry-on bag, not in the pocket or outside of the bag.

What types of aerosols are prohibited on planes?

The following types of aerosols are prohibited on planes:

  • Aerosols that contain flammable liquids, such as hairspray, deodorant, and sunscreen
  • Aerosols that contain compressed gases, such as spray paint and whipped cream
  • Aerosols that contain flammable solids, such as dry-cleaning fluid and lighter fluid

What happens if I accidentally pack an aerosol in my checked baggage?

If you accidentally pack an aerosol in your checked baggage, it will be confiscated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You will not be able to get your aerosol back, and you may be subject to a fine.

What if I have a prescription medication that is an aerosol?

If you have a prescription medication that is an aerosol, you must carry it with you in your carry-on baggage. You must declare the medication to the TSA at the security checkpoint. The medication will be inspected and may be subject to additional screening.

Can I bring aerosols on a plane in my checked luggage?

No, aerosols are not permitted in checked baggage on flights. They must be packed in a clear, plastic bag that is no larger than 1 quart and placed in the main compartment of your carry-on bag.

aerosols will not explode on a plane. However, they can still be dangerous if they are not properly stored. It is important to follow the airline’s guidelines for storing aerosols, and to never open an aerosol can on a plane.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.