How can I keep my belongings safe from thieves while flying?

Cases of in-cabin theft are increasing on some commercial flights.

- Christie Chiu

Such thefts are often orchestrated by syndicates and are common on Vietnam, Bangkok and China routes, Malaysian news outlet The Star reported on Dec 15.

Hong Kong's security chief on Dec 4 also revealed that thefts on board planes bound for the territory almost doubled in 2024, with a total of 169 reports lodged in the first 10 months. This is in contrast to the 92 cases recorded across the whole of 2023.

Here are tips on how to keep your valuables safe on a flight.

1. CHOOSE AN OVERHEAD COMPARTMENT ACROSS FROM YOUR SEAT Instead of placing your carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment directly above you, choose one across from your seat, said Ms Noriko Takasaki, security director of assistance for Asia at International SOS, a health and security risk services firm.

"This allows you to monitor your bags and notice any suspicious activity," she said, adding that passengers should ensure their carry-on bags are locked.

2. KEEP VALUABLES ON YOURSELF Passengers should keep valuables such as wallets, passports, electronic devices and expensive jewellery on themselves instead of in overhead compartments or checked luggage, travel security experts said.