Various airlines have released advice for travellers about a particular toy which cannot be taken on board flights. Each will have its own restrictions and requirements passengers will need to stick to, with each providing a list of what can and can’t be taken on board in hold or hand luggage. 

While people may be familiar with restrictions surrounding liquids, food, and electronic items, and other prohibited items like aerosols, flammable liquids, and weapons, airlines have shared some advice concerning a children’s toy that families may find themselves in possession of. Airlines have explained that their restrictions extend to toy guns, which are a popular favourite for children to entertain themselves with. If passengers attempt to bring a toy gun or a replica gun on board a flight, it will be seized.

Warning for children’s toys banned on flights

All carriers have baggage restrictions that every passenger must comply with. This includes requirements for travelling with liquids, food and baby formula, and electronic devices, reports the Mirror.

The baggage restrictions include prohibited items, such as sharp and dangerous objects, as well as liquids exceeding 100ml, although the liquid rule has been modified at some UK airports.

Many passengers are typically aware of the standard restrictions, but there are some that could prove surprising and might appear somewhat unusual.

One of the items prohibited from all flights is toy guns and weapons, including replicas, which are frequently a popular toy amongst children, particularly following a visit to somewhere like Disneyland, where souvenirs are available for purchase.

Anyone attempting to board a flight with a toy gun or weapon is likely to have it seized, even if it belongs to a child and is merely a toy.

TUI outlined the restriction on “Toy guns, replicas, and imitation firearms that could be mistaken for real weapons”, under its dangerous and prohibited articles. They confirm they are not permitted to be carried through security or onto the aircraft.

EasyJet ais that “toy guns, replicas and imitation firearms capable of being mistaken for real weapons” are banned from cabin baggage. However, toy guns can be transported in hold baggage.

Ryanair confirmed that “toy guns (including recreational guns such as paintball guns), replicas and imitation firearms capable of being mistaken for real weapons” are not allowed either on board or in checked luggage.

Jet2 explained that firearms, even those that are toys, are “forbidden for carriage”. This prohibition extends to other major airlines, but it’s always wise to consult directly with the airline for their specific restrictions and advice on certain items prior to travelling.