Cell phones, cell phone battery charging cases, laptops, cameras, smart phones, electronics, data loggers,PDAscontaining lithium batteries, games, tablets, watches, etc.
Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries (laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc.) should be carried in carry-on baggage. Flight crews are trained to recognize and respond to lithium battery fires in the cabin. Passengers should notify flight crew immediately if their lithium battery or device is overheating, expanding, smoking or burning. When portable electronic devices powered by lithium batteries are in checked baggage, they must be completely powered off and protected to prevent unintentional activation or damage. Electronic devices capable of generating extreme heat, heating elements must be isolated which could cause a fire if activated, by removal of the heating element, battery or other components.
Most consumer personal electronic devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage, including but not limited to cell phones, smart phones, data loggers, PDAs, electronic games, tablets, laptop computers, cameras, camcorders, watches, calculators, etc. This covers typical dry cell batteries and lithium metal and lithium ion batteries for consumer electronics (AA, AAA, C, D, button cell, camera batteries, laptop batteries, etc.)
Spare (uninstalled) lithium metal and lithium ion batteries are always prohibited in checked baggage and must be placed in carry-on. When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or at planeside, any spare lithium batteries must be removed from the bag and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin.
See separate entry in this chart forelectronic smoking devices. These are always prohibited in checked baggage.
Quantity limits:There are no quantity limits for "personal use*," except that larger lithium ion batteries and spare nonspillable wet (gel cell, absorbed electrolyte) batteries are limited to two per person. For size restrictions on lithium metal, lithium ion, and nonspillable wet (gel cell, absorbed electrolyte) batteries, see separate "Spare batteries" entries in this table or consult "Airline Passengers and Batteries" link below.* "Personal use" does not include items for resale or distribution.
Spare batteries must be protected from damage and short circuit.
See the regulation:49CFR175.10(a)(18)
Damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices, which are likely to create sparks or generate a dangerous evolution of heat must not be carried aboard an aircraft (e.g. carry-on or checked baggage) unless the damaged or recalled battery has been removed, or otherwise made safe. The airline may offer further public guidance on transporting individual recalled products.
For additional information on recalls, visit theConsumer Product Safety Commission, manufacturer, or vendor website.
View our illustrated guide atBatteries Carried by Airline Passengers FAQ.
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Lithium Batteries and Air Travel Regulations
When it comes to air travel, it's important to understand the regulations surrounding devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. Here's a breakdown of the key points related to lithium batteries and air travel:
Carrying Devices with Lithium Batteries:
- Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc., should be carried in carry-on baggage. Flight crews are trained to recognize and respond to lithium battery fires in the cabin .
Safety Measures for Checked Baggage:
- When portable electronic devices powered by lithium batteries are in checked baggage, they must be completely powered off and protected to prevent unintentional activation or damage.
Prohibited Items in Checked Baggage:
- Spare (uninstalled) lithium metal and lithium ion batteries are always prohibited in checked baggage and must be placed in carry-on baggage. When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or at planeside, any spare lithium batteries must be removed from the bag and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin.
Quantity Limits and Protection:
- There are no quantity limits for "personal use," except that larger lithium ion batteries and spare nonspillable wet batteries are limited to two per person. Spare batteries must be protected from damage and short circuit.
Damaged or Recalled Batteries:
- Damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices that are likely to create sparks or generate a dangerous evolution of heat must not be carried aboard an aircraft unless the damaged or recalled battery has been removed or made safe.
These regulations are in place to ensure the safe transport of devices containing lithium batteries and to mitigate the risk of potential hazards during air travel.
Conclusion
Understanding the regulations and safety measures related to lithium batteries and electronic devices is crucial for air travelers. By following these guidelines, passengers can contribute to a safer and more secure travel experience for themselves and their fellow travelers.
