Traveling can often involve packing items you’re not sure are allowed on a plane, especially regarding various types of adhesives. One common question travelers have is whether they can bring super glue on a plane.
Understanding the TSA’s guidelines on transporting adhesives can help ensure that you pack appropriately and avoid any issues at the security checkpoint.
In this post, we’ll dive into the specifics of TSA Super Glue Rules to clarify what you can and cannot bring on your flight, whether you’re carrying on or checking your bags.
Whether you’re a crafter, a DIY enthusiast, or simply need to fix something on the go, this information will be crucial for your travel plans.
The Quick Answer: Can i bring super glue on a plane? You can only take certain super glues on a plane if they are non-flammable. If that is the case super glue may be packed in your carry on as long as the container it is in is no larger than 3.4oz/100ml.
Super glue, also known as cyanoacrylate adhesive, has become an item that almost every household has in a drawer since its invention in World War II to join perspex together in aircraft canopies and its use in Vietnam as a quick treatment for wounded soldiers.
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Can you take super glue through airport security
There are no restrictions on taking non-flammable super glue through a security checkpoint at the airport apart from the size of the super glue bottle.
However, flammable super glue is not permitted on a plane at all.
The FAA states the following:
Some super glues and other household glues are not flammable and would be allowed in baggage. To see if they are flammable, check the product label or the manufacturer’s material safety data sheet (MSDS). When checking the MSDS, a “flash point” at or below 140° F (60° C) indicates it is a flammable liquid and may not be carried in airline baggage.
https://www.faa.gov/hazmat/packsafe/more_info/?hazmat=3
Since it is a liquid, super glue must be in a bottle no larger than 3.4oz/100ml. It must be taken out of your hand luggage and placed in your resealable, see-through plastic bag along with your other liquids when passing through the airport security checkpoint.
The TSA offers a very good service on Twitter where you can ask a specific question about whether you can take something through the security checkpoint and they will respond quickly. You can also use a service on their website – TSA What Can I Bring?
This is an example response from the TSA to a passenger’s question regarding carrying super glue:
Can you take super glue on a plane in your carry on?
As stated above, super glue can only be taken in your carry on bag and through a security checkpoint at the airport if it is non-flammable and the size of the bottle is no larger than 3.4oz/100ml.
Can you take super glue in your checked bags?
You can only pack super glue in your checked bag if it is a non-flammable type of super glue. Regular flammable super glue is not permitted in checked bags.
Can you bring glue on a plane other than super glue?
Although most super glues are not allowed, many others, such as some model glues, rubber cement, and industrial-strength glues and adhesives, are flammable so they are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage either.
However, some other household glues and nail glue are not flammable so they would be allowed in your baggage.
Ensure you check the product label or the manufacturer’s material safety data sheet to see if they are flammable. The important thing is the “flash point,” which, if it is at or below 140° F (60° C) indicates it is a flammable liquid so it cannot be carried in your baggage.
Can I take gorilla glue on a plane?
According to the Gorilla Glue datasheet it is non-flammable so it is permitted on a plane. (See datasheet here).
It must go in checked baggage if it is in a tube larger than 3.4 ounces.
Summary
You can only take super glue on a plane if it is not flammable, as flammable super glue is not permitted on a plane.
If it is non-flammable, then it can go in your carry on provided the bottle it is contained in is no larger than 3.4oz/100ml (which is unlikely as most bottles are only 10ml or less). It can be placed in your checked baggage without restriction.
While you can bring super glue in hand luggage, it is important to remember that the container size must comply with the liquid restrictions. Typically, containers of super glue should be less than 100ml or 3.4 ounces to be permitted in your hand luggage. Transferring the super glue into small travel-sized containers or purchasing travel-sized tubes is a good idea to ensure compliance.
In the case of checked luggage, bringing super glue is generally allowed. However, it is advisable to pack it securely and ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent leaks or spills. It is also recommended to place the super glue container inside a clear plastic bag along with other small items for convenience during the security screening process.
To sum up, the answer to the frequently asked question, “Can I take super glue on a plane?” is yes, you can bring super glue on an airplane. Whether it is in your hand luggage or checked baggage, make sure to adhere to the airline’s guidelines and regulations. Remember to pack it properly to prevent any potential mishaps during your journey.
I have been traveling around the world by air since the early 70s and living overseas too. I worked for British Airways for a number of years and I am also a private pilot. About Me
