Passenger uses curling iron aboard a Delta flight: video goes viral and (re)ignites debate over in-flight rules

A passenger who, in economy, pulls out his laptop to make a videocall of work and another that connects a power strip multisocket to the seat socket to charge their devices; scenes, these, unfortunately, we have seen before. This time, however, the level has definitely risen: a woman, a passenger on a flight Delta, was filmed using a lit curling iron.

The video - which, needless to say, a few days ago became viral on TikTok-shows the woman arranging her hair strand by strand, plugging the appliance into the seat's power outlet. The images immediately ignited online debate among security, regulations and good sense.

Curling iron in airplane: is it forbidden or not?

Many comments below the video speak of a "prohibited object," but in reality the issue is more multifaceted. According to the rules of the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), the curling irons with wire Are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. This is different for cordless models: those with lithium batteries may have restrictions, while those powered by gas or butane are allowed only in carry-on luggage. In any case, the key point is another: carrying an item on board does not mean you can use it during the flight.

Just because you can do it doesn't mean you should do it

Most Delta aircraft, even in economy, are equipped with power or USB outlets. It is apparent-but not to everyone, it seems-that these are designed to power personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and laptops, certainly not home appliances generating heat. The use of a curling iron involves not only a serious risk by fire, but also a overloading of the on-board electrical system and a certain inconvenience to nearby passengers, in an already extremely confined space.

Not surprisingly, although Delta policies do not explicitly mention straighteners or curling irons, the Contract of Carriage authorizes the crew to intervene-until the passenger is removed-in the event of behavior deemed dangerous or unreasonably annoying to others. In summary: crew decides. And thank goodness. 

Safety and common sense at 10,000 meters

The video has divided the public. On the one hand, those who talk about behavior irresponsible, on the other hand those who defend the freedom individual Of the passenger. In the United States, however, the Department of Transportation recently launched a campaign national to promote the return to education and respect on board. The goal is to remember that flying is a 'shared experience; in short, traveling by air is not the same as being in your living room at home.

In conclusion

Whether it's a curling iron, a multi-socket power strip or an XXL-sized iMac, the rule remains the same: just because you can do it doesn't mean you should do it.