When talking about air travel gadgets, it’s important to remember that the brains behind said gadgets don’t always run their ideas by the airlines. That is why we’re sometimes faced with travel gadget ideas that literally don’t fly.

Case in point: Personalized Airplane Seat Covers. They’re meant to keep things clean, comfortable, and germ-free when you’re traveling. The only problem is, you can’t use them:

“Airplane seat cushions and covers must meet stringent flammability standards before they are certified for onboard use. The personalized seat covers that are now being marketed, and that have been seen on several televisions news shows, will not meet the certification requirements. The FAA has recommended that airlines not allow these devices to be used onboard.” (From Fly Away Cafe)

Before you shell out the cash or take a TV reporter’s word for it, make sure you contact the airline to see if your travel gadget of choice is really ready and legal for travel.