Lithium batteries power many of the devices travelers rely on every day, but they can pose safety risks if not handled correctly during air travel. That’s why airlines and aviation authorities have clear guidelines in place. This guide breaks down what travelers need to know — from who sets the rules to how to pack batteries safely — before heading to the airport.
Airline and Regulatory Oversight
To help protect passengers and aircraft, there are specific lithium battery regulations travelers must follow. Aircraft battery safety is critical, as improperly stored batteries pose a fire risk and can lead to smoke and fire incidents onboard.
To reduce these risks, aviation authorities around the world have established strict safety rules and global standards that continue to evolve as technology changes. Organizations such as the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) provide airline and regulatory oversight to ensure consistent enforcement of these rules.
This continuous evolution of safety guidance helps airlines address emerging risks related to lithium batteries while maintaining the highest levels of passenger and aircraft safety.
Safety Risks and Rationale for Restrictions
Lithium batteries have a high energy density, meaning even a small battery can store a large amount of power. If a battery is damaged or faulty — especially counterfeit batteries — it can pose serious fire hazards.
That’s why the FAA and TSA enforce strict rules on how lithium batteries are transported. In the aircraft cabin, passengers and flight crews can quickly notice warning signs and respond if a battery overheats or fails. In contrast, issues that occur in the cargo hold are much harder to detect and manage.
In rare cases, failing batteries can also release heat, smoke or toxic off gassing, increasing the risk to the aircraft. Following these safety guidelines helps reduce risk and supports a smooth, safe and stress free in flight experience for everyone.
Types of Devices and Batteries Covered
Airline rules related to lithium batteries apply to most portable electronic devices. This includes smartphones, laptops, tablets, cameras and even drones. Battery powered lighters are also covered, though they may be subject to additional restrictions depending on the airline and destination.
These rules apply not only to devices themselves, but also to spares for these devices, such as extra batteries carried separately. If you plan to travel with any battery powered electronics, it’s important to review lithium battery guidelines before arriving at the airport so you know what to pack, where to pack it and are fully prepared for a smooth travel experience.
Rules for Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage
Most lithium batteries should be packed in your carry on luggage, as this is the safest place for them during a flight. Spare (uninstalled) lithium batteries must always be placed in carry on bags and are not allowed in checked luggage. To reduce risk, spare batteries should be stored in separate plastic bags so they cannot touch metal items or each other.
Devices with removable batteries may be checked only if the battery is removed beforehand. The battery itself must then be placed in your carry on. E cigarettes are permitted in carry on baggage only and are never allowed in checked bags.
Battery powered personal transportation devices, such as hoverboards or e scooters, are typically restricted or prohibited due to their large battery size. Travelers should also never bring damaged, defective or recalled lithium batteries, as these pose serious safety risks and are not allowed in either carry on or checked baggage.
Limits on Battery Size and Quantity
When you fly, airlines are strict about batteries because they can pose a fire risk if damaged or used improperly. Every battery has a watt hour rating, which shows how much energy it stores. Passengers may carry an unlimited number of small lithium ion batteries (<100 watt hours) in their carry on luggage. Larger batteries, however, may require airline approval before arriving at the airport.
Lithium ion batteries are commonly found in phones, laptops, power banks and external battery chargers, while lithium metal batteries are often used in watches and small electronic devices, with lithium content measured differently. All power banks and external chargers must be packed in carry on bags, as these items are prohibited in checked luggage.
Any spare battery not installed in a device must also be placed in your carry on. Airlines may limit the number of spare batteries allowed, especially those with higher watt hour ratings, so travelers should always check their airline’s specific requirements before flying.
Proper Packing and Handling Guidance
When it comes to safely packing and handling lithium batteries before traveling, it’s important to follow recommended guidelines to prevent damage, short circuits or other safety issues. The FAA’s PackSafe website offers helpful guidance on how to travel safely with batteries and electronic devices.
One potential risk is accidental activation, which occurs when a device turns on inside a bag. To avoid this, be sure all devices are fully powered off before packing. It’s also important to perform a quick device inspection prior to travel, as damaged batteries are more likely to overheat or fail.
For loose batteries, protecting the battery terminals is critical, as exposed terminals can spark if they come into contact with metal. To reduce this risk, place batteries in their manufacturer’s packaging, apply protective tape over the terminals or store them in separate bags. These precautions help prevent a thermal runaway incident, which can lead to overheating, smoke or fire.
Responding to Battery Incidents on Board
If a device is dropped or shows signs of swelling or overheating, the battery may be unsafe. These are considered damaged batteries and require immediate attention. Smoke and fire incidents can also occur and may be indicated by heat, sparks or a burning smell.
Flight crew training prepares airline staff to respond quickly in these situations using specialized fire response tools and approved battery containment methods designed to stop the issue from spreading. Passengers should also avoid placing loose electronics in overhead compartment storage, where problems may go unnoticed if a device overheats or fails.
In addition, e cigarette charging during a flight is strongly discouraged, as these devices have been linked to battery failures. Batteries with short circuited battery terminals can overheat rapidly, increasing the risk of an incident. Being mindful of where and how batteries and devices are stored helps reduce risks and supports a safe and smooth flight for everyone.