Lithium batteries power many everyday devices, including smartphones, laptops, cameras, and power banks. However, strict rules apply to ensure safety when traveling by air.
Can you fly with lithium batteries? The short answer is yes, but there are limits. Airlines have guidelines regarding battery size, quantity, and packing.
This guide will help you understand everything about flying with lithium batteries, including airline policies, safety tips, and how to pack batteries correctly.
Part 1. Can you bring lithium batteries on a plane?
You can bring lithium batteries on a plane, but restrictions.
Airlines follow the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules, which help prevent battery-related fires and protect passengers.
There are different rules for:
- Carry-on baggage (hand luggage)
- Checked luggage (hold baggage)
Let’s look at what’s allowed and what’s not.
Part 2. Can you pack lithium batteries in checked luggage?
Loose lithium batteries are not allowed in checked luggage.
A battery must be carried in the cabin bag if it is not installed in a device. Batteries can overheat and catch fire, and controlling a fire in the cargo hold is harder.
However, lithium batteries inside a device (such as a laptop or camera) can be checked. Still, it is safer to keep them in your carry-on.
Part 3. Can you bring lithium batteries with you in your carry-on baggage?
Yes, lithium batteries are allowed in carry-on bags, but there are rules:
- Spare (unattached) lithium batteries must be carried in hand luggage.
- To prevent short circuits, each battery must be protected. Use a battery case or its original packaging, or cover the terminals with tape.
- Most airlines allow batteries up to 100Wh without special approval.
- Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval.
Part 4. What is the watt-hour (Wh) limit for lithium batteries on a plane?
Airlines use watt-hours (Wh) to measure battery size. Here are the basic limits:
| Battery Type | Carry-On Allowed? | Checked Luggage Allowed? |
|---|---|---|
| Under 100Wh | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (if inside a device) |
| 100Wh – 160Wh | ✅ Yes (with approval) | ❌ No |
| Over 160Wh | ❌ No | ❌ No |
To calculate watt-hours (Wh), use this formula:
Wh = Volts (V) × Ampere-hours (Ah)
For example, if a battery is 10V and 5Ah, the Wh is:
10V × 5Ah = 50Wh
If your battery does not have a clear label, check the voltage (V) and capacity (Ah) and use the formula to calculate it.
Part 5. Lithium battery policies of major airlines
Different airlines have slightly different rules for lithium batteries. Below are the policies of some popular airlines:
American Airlines
- Up to 100Wh: Allowed in carry-on and checked luggage (if inside a device).
- 100Wh – 160Wh: Allowed with airline approval (carry-on only).
- Over 160Wh: Not allowed.
Delta Airlines
- Power banks & spare batteries: Must be in carry-on baggage.
- Devices with batteries: Can go in checked luggage but must be turned off.
United Airlines
- Up to 100Wh: No restrictions.
- 100Wh – 160Wh: Maximum of two spare batteries, airline approval required.
- Over 160Wh: Not allowed.
Ryanair
- Spare lithium batteries & power banks: Carry-on only.
- Electronic cigarettes (with lithium batteries): Carry-on only.
Emirates
- Batteries above 160Wh are not allowed.
- Drones with lithium batteries: Allowed in hand luggage, but battery must be removed.
Tip: Always check your airline’s official website before flying, as rules can change.
Part 6. Can you fly with power banks?
Power banks are allowed on planes, but you must follow the 100Wh rule.
- Power banks must be carried in hand luggage.
- They cannot be placed in checked luggage.
- You need airline approval if your power bank is between 100Wh and 160Wh.
- If unsure, check your power bank’s Wh rating before flying.
Part 7. Are lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries different?
Yes, airlines treat lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries differently.
- Lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion): These are used in laptops, cameras, phones, and power banks and are measured in Wh (watt-hours).
- Lithium-metal batteries: These are used in medical devices and some cameras and are measured in grams of lithium content.
For lithium-metal batteries, the limit is 2 grams of lithium per battery.
Part 8. Can you fly with e-bike or electric scooter batteries?
Most airlines do not allow electric scooters or e-bike batteries because they often exceed the 160Wh limit.
If you need to bring an electric scooter or e-bike, check with your airline. Some may allow detachable batteries under 160Wh, but they must be in your carry-on.
Part 9. How to pack lithium batteries safely for air travel?
To avoid problems at airport security, follow these packing tips:
- Keep spare batteries in your carry-on, not in checked luggage.
- Use original packaging or a battery case to protect them.
- Cover battery terminals with tape to prevent short circuits.
- Do not bring damaged or swollen batteries.
- If unsure, check with your airline before your flight.
Part 10. What happens if you bring a restricted battery on a plane?
If you bring a restricted lithium battery, airport security may:
- Confiscate the battery at security.
- Deny boarding if the battery is a safety risk.
- Ask you to remove the battery from the checked luggage.
To avoid problems, check airline regulations before traveling.
Artikel Terkait: Learn About Lithium Battery Packaging and Shipping
Part 11. FAQs about lithium batteries on a plane
Can you fly with lithium batteries in checked luggage?
Only if the battery is inside a device. Loose lithium batteries must be in carry-on luggage.
Can I bring my laptop battery on a plane?
Yes, laptop batteries under 100Wh are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage.
Are AA or AAA lithium batteries allowed on planes?
Lithium AA or AAA batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.
Can I carry multiple lithium batteries on a flight?
Yes, but most airlines limit passengers to two spare batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh.
Do airlines check battery watt-hours (Wh)?
Yes, some airlines may ask for the battery’s Wh rating. Always check your battery label before traveling.
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