BRADFORD, Pa., Nov. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now allows travelers to carry Zippo windproof lighters past security checkpoints and in the cabins of commercial aircraft.

Since the ban on lighters was imposed in late 2004, Zippo has been working closely with legislators to reverse the ruling. "The TSA concluded that lighters carry no risk to passengers," said Greg Booth, president and CEO of Zippo Manufacturing Company. "We are very pleased that they and the Department of Transportation have decided to lift the ban on our products."

The ruling was a key decision in Zippo's favor since souvenir lighters are an important source of business in prominent tourism areas such as New York City, California, Hawaii and the Caribbean. "This is a welcomed change for our consumers as well. There are millions of Zippo collectors worldwide who often purchase lighters while traveling. The TSA ruling makes it much easier for them to take souvenir lighters back home," Booth said. In order to regain sales in this important business segment, Zippo is developing several new souvenir designs which will debut in 2008.

In addition to allowing Zippo windproof lighters in passenger cabins, the product is also permitted in checked luggage. One stipulation is that if a Zippo windproof lighter has been previously fueled, it must be placed in a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved carrying case such as the Zippo Air Case (ZAC) or Zippo Cargo Case (ZCC) before it is stowed in checked luggage. Also, only two previously fueled lighters are allowed in checked luggage.

For more details on how to properly pack a Zippo lighter and information about the Zippo Air and Cargo Cases, visit zippo.com.

About Zippo

Founded in 1932, Zippo celebrates 75 years as a leading global marketer of refillable windproof pocket and utility lighters with an unparalleled lifetime guarantee. Based in Bradford, Pa., the company and its 800 employees manufacture and distribute products to more than 140 countries. Zippo also owns W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company, one of America's oldest and finest knife manufacturers, and Zippo Fashion Italia, maker of Italian fashion leather goods. For more information about Zippo, please visit Zippo.com.

CONTACT: Krista Goch for Zippo, 412-995-9597,
kgoch@blattnerbrunner.com

Web site: http://zippo.com/