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Knives

 
Carry-on bag
Checked-in luggage
Knives
 
 

Can I take this item on a plane?

All knives and multi-tools with blades longer than 6cm in length are restricted from your carry-on luggage but they can go in checked-in luggage.

If you do not need the knife during the flight, pack it in checked luggage or leave it at home.

Note: To reduce the risk of injury, Aviation Security Officers will not open the blades on pocket knives or multi-tools. All pocket knives and multi-tools will be measured unopened and any that are 9.5cm in length or longer will not be allowed to travel. Multi-tools and pocket knives that measure 9.5cm in length are likely to have a blade that exceeds 6cm.

What are the restrictions?

  • Knives with blades more than 6cm long must be carried in checked-in luggage
  • Knives with blades less than 6cm can be taken in carry-on bags

Check Knives - illegal to make sure the knives you are carrying are not offensive weapons.

Why is this item restricted?

Large knives on board a plane could be used to seriously harm passengers and crew.

What happens if I have a restricted item in my carry-on bag?

You will be asked to relinquish all dangerous or prohibited items found in your carry-on luggage. If you refuse:

  • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
  • your airline will be advised of your refusal.

How does Aviation Security screen for restricted items?

AvSec X-ray bags going onto aircraft to ensure there is nothing dangerous in them.

  • Checked luggage - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating, the bag will be opened, searched and any dangerous good or prohibited item will be removed, with a bag search notification form left within the bag.
  • Carry-on - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating an AvSec Officer will request a bag search, and the bag will be opened and searched in your presence. If any dangerous goods or prohibited items are found, you will be asked to relinquish them.  If you refuse:
    • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
    • your airline will be advised of your refusal

What if my items are removed?

If you want to retrieve an item that has been removed, please contact your airline as soon as possible. The airline will dispose of items within three to seven days, so the sooner you make contact, the better your chance of having the items returned to you. For more information, see:

Retrieving your removed items

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