Taipei:Taiwan will implement a ban on the use of heated tobacco products during flights beginning December 1, as announced by the Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) on Tuesday. The penalties for violations include imprisonment for up to five years or a fine reaching NT$150,000 (US$4,564).

According to Focus Taiwan, the CAA indicated that this regulatory update aligns with the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act, aiming to mitigate potential safety risks associated with emerging tobacco and nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.

The agency explained that these products could pose fire and smoke hazards and potentially increase aircraft maintenance expenses. The revised regulations will prohibit passengers from using heated tobacco products at any time during a flight, while the existing ban on e-cigarettes will continue to be enforced.

Violators of these rules could face significant penalties under the Civil Aviation Act, including a maximum of five years in prison, detention, or fines up to NT$150,000. In cases where a violation leads to death, the offender could be sentenced to life imprisonment or a minimum prison term of seven years. If serious injury occurs, the penalty ranges from three to ten years in prison.

The CAA has advised passengers to review the applicable rules via their airline's website or at check-in counters prior to boarding. Once aboard, passengers are instructed to keep e-cigarettes and heated tobacco devices switched off and refrain from using them throughout the flight.