Engadget has a short story on the "flaming laptop batteries" problem - I heard about this on the Buzz Out LLoud podcast Monday. Seems that cracked Lithium Ion battery cases admit oxygen, which can cause a nasty reaction with the Lithium. Here's the part that could give notebook users heartburn:

While the NTSB investigation hasn't pinned the blame on the batteries just yet, the FAA's has Harry Webster has testified that lithium-ion batteries can vent flammable liquid and "pose a risk to the cargo compartment." We've already seen warnings not to use your laptop on your lap -- think warnings not to travel with them are far behind?

Having said that, I'll note that these batteries have been in use for a long time now - so I'd be kind of surprised by any harsh action. Worth paying attention to though.

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