Passengers on the U.K.-based airline carrying the laptops can bring them aboard only after removing the battery and storing it in carry-on luggage, according to the company.
"Any removed or spare batteries must be individually wrapped/protected and placed in your carry on baggage," Virgin said in a statement.
Earlier this year, a UPS cargo plane caught fire at 31,000 feet and three flight-crew members suffered minor injuries. It is being investigated whether the fire, which caused major damage to the plane and cargo, was caused by exploding lithium-ion batteries, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.
Virgin customers can still use their Apple and Dell laptops while onboard flights, but will have to be sitting in either Upper Class or Premium Economy where power outlets are available. People assigned to seats without power outlets will be barred from using their Dell or Apple laptops completely, according to the statement.
"As soon as this safety issue is resolved these restrictions will be lifted," said the statement.
Safety First!
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