The Federal Government has warned airline passengers about the dangers of carrying loose lithium-ion batteries, after a carry-on bag caught fire on a plane at Sydney Airport.

The aircraft was on the ground and there was no damage.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester says while most passengers are aware of obvious hazards, they must also consider everyday items such as toiletries, aerosols and tools.

“While there was no damage to the aircraft, several passengers did report feeling ill,” he said. “This incident serves as a warning on the dangers of carrying these batteries on flights.”

The Government has regulations to ensure safety, but travellers are still responsible for declaring dangerous goods, he says.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has strict conditions for the carriage of lithium batteries.

Mr Chester has urged travellers to read warnings about dangerous items when checking in, and to surrender items before boarding.

Last year actor Russell Crowe learned the hard way that hoverboards are banned from Virgin Australia flights due to fears over faulty lithium-ion batteries. The Sydney-based movie star angrily tweeted that his children were not allowed to board with their Christmas toys.

See the rules here.