How to Transport Drones and Batteries by Air Yourself
DANGER
Information may be outdated. Verify with official sources.
Despite the large amount of information available, this topic keeps coming up repeatedly. This is a loose interpretation of the rules, combined with experience from my own and other people’s flights.
Transportation rules for any goods are an international standard (IATA). You can study them in detail here. Some airlines may impose their own additional rules, but they do not have the authority to inspect your belongings — this is handled by the airport security. Therefore, as a precaution, it’s better not to unnecessarily disclose what you are carrying, for example at check-in.
Drones can be transported either in checked luggage or carry-on baggage. The battery must be disconnected, and propellers removed.
WARNING
Not all countries allow the import of such equipment.
Batteries can be transported ONLY in carry-on luggage. They must be undamaged, charged to around 30%, and have short-circuit protection. For us, this means either using terminal covers or placing each battery in a separate bag. They must also have factory markings indicating capacity and voltage.
Regarding capacity: up to 100Wh is allowed, which is quite a lot — our batteries are usually around 20Wh. There is no strict limit on quantity, but carrying an entire bag full of batteries is not recommended.
INFO
There are documented cases of transporting a ~4 kg package of batteries (including LiPos and Li-ion cells) through three airports under a 5 kg limit.
- At security screening, in 99% of cases you will be asked to take them out and show them. Do so calmly, explain what they are and what they are for — and you will likely be wished a pleasant flight.