For those who need a regular nicotine fix, the chance to smoke in
On its website, blu Cigs says its products "can be smoked in bars, restaurants, planes and offices."
SKYCIG told Business Insider its e-cigarettes "are not covered by the smoking ban so can virtually be used anywhere even when no smoking signs are in place, including planes."
Fueling such claims is lack of clear federal regulation. In February 2011, the AP reported that the Department of
But when we asked the DOT if that official ban was ever issued, a spokesperson told us to ask the
Hoping to clear things up, we contacted
So we went to the airlines, and finally got a few answers.
Here's the bottom line: No, you can't smoke e-cigarettes in airplanes. At least not in planes operated by large American carriers.
JetBlue says that although electronic cigarettes "may be non-hazardous, JetBlue does NOT allow the USE of them on any of our flights," because the vapor they produce is a "nuisance."
United bans all "simulated smoking materials" are banned, including e-cigs.
Here's American's response: "American Airlines does not allow electronic cigarettes to be used onboard."
Delta's answer was similar: "Delta does not permit the use of electronic cigarettes on board any Delta or Delta Connection aircraft."
In an April 2010 issue of its "Spirit" magazine, Southwest Airlines classified "electronic cigarettes and smoking devices" as "Never Permitted" (via the Global Advisors Smokefree Policy).
Sorry smokers, but if you want to get your fix while in the air, nicotine gum and patches are still your best option.