This doesn't mean that TSA will be checking serial numbers. It means that people will be scared and consider checking if they need a recall, and completing it,

This doesn't mean that TSA will be checking serial numbers. It means that people will be scared and consider checking if they need a recall, and completing it, instead of delaying. It does mean that if you bring a laptop for which the recall applies onto a plane, you could be found at fault if it crashes. Assuming you live and they're able to read the serial number from it, anyways. I assume that comes with some sort of financial liability, which at the (iirc) ~$12mil/person cost of life used by the USgov + the cost an entire plane, seems a bit much to risk. Battery recalls are risk-of-death recalls. Do not put off repairs.