Can I Take a Drone on a Plane? 5 Essential Tips

Can you take a drone on a plane? Drones have become a must-have gadget for travellers who love capturing stunning aerial shots. Whether you plan to fly your drone over tropical beaches, historic cities, or remote mountain landscapes, you need to know the rules before bringing it on a plane.

Airlines and aviation authorities have strict guidelines on carrying drones, mainly because their lithium batteries pose a fire risk if not handled properly.

Introduction

Can I take a drone on a plane? The simple answer is yes, but there are strict rules that you need to follow. Airlines and aviation authorities have specific guidelines on how drones and their batteries should be packed and transported. It is also important to note that each airline has different rules. If you don’t follow these rules, your drone could be confiscated, your batteries may be removed, or you might face delays at airport security.

Before travelling with your drone, you must consider three major concerns:

Battery size and type – Lithium batteries are considered hazardous and have strict airline restrictions.
Carry-on vs. checked luggage – Airlines have specific rules on where you should pack your drone and batteries.
Country-specific regulations – Some countries ban drones entirely, while others require permits or registration.

Following the rules will help you avoid security issues, prevent damage to your drone, and ensure a hassle-free journey. Let’s take a closer look at each factor.

1. Drone Batteries and Airline Rules

Why Are Batteries an Issue?

Most drones use lithium-polymer (LiPo) or lithium-ion batteries. These are lightweight and powerful but can overheat and catch fire if damaged or stored incorrectly.

Aviation authorities like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have strict guidelines for taking lithium batteries on planes.

Battery Size Limits

Batteries are measured in watt-hours (Wh) rather than just volts or capacity (mAh). Most airlines allow:

Batteries under 100Wh – Allowed in carry-on luggage without restriction.
Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh – Allowed in carry-on but usually limited to two spare batteries.
Batteries over 160Wh – Prohibited on most passenger flights.

Most consumer drones, like the DJI Mini series or Mavic Air, have batteries under 100Wh, so they are generally safe to bring on board. However, professional drones with larger batteries may be restricted.

If you would like more information about taking batteries on planes, please read my article “Can You Take a Power Bank onto a Plane? 8 Important Things You Need to Know“.

2. Carry-On or Checked Luggage?

Carry-On Luggage

Most airlines recommend packing your drone in carry-on luggage. This ensures that:

The drone is not damaged by rough handling in the cargo hold.
Security officers can inspect it easily if needed.
Lithium batteries are stored safely.

However, space in the cabin is limited, and some airlines may ask you to check your drone if your bag is too large.

Checked Luggage

If you must put your drone in checked luggage:

Remove the batteries and keep them in your carry-on.
Use a hard-shell case to protect your drone from impact.
Check airline policies, as some ban drones in checked baggage altogether.

Never pack loose drone batteries in your checked luggage. The only exception is if the airline requires the drone to be packed in checked-in luggage. The airline may allow one battery to be installed in the drone. If they overheat, they can cause fires that are harder to detect in the cargo hold.

Examples of What Airlines Require

Emirates does not allow drones in carry-on luggage, and they must be packed in checked-in luggage. Loss batteries must be secured within the drone or carried in carry-on luggage. See Emirates Dangerous Good Policy.
Some websites state that Wizz Air has banned drones on its flights. However, Wizz Air’s website states: “Drones are allowed for transportation in both carry-on and checked baggage. If packing it in checked baggage, make sure the drone is switched off and well-protected to avoid damage. Ensure the drone and its batteries comply with the requirements for portable electronic devices.” See Wizz Air’s Restricted Items Policy.

3. Essentials for Safe Packing of Your Drone

It is essential to pack your drone safely.

Use a dedicated drone case

A padded or hard-shell drone case is the best way to protect your drone from damage during travel. Airlines often handle luggage roughly, and a drone’s delicate motors, camera gimbal, and propellers can break if not properly secured.

Tip: If you’re carrying your drone in checked luggage, ensure the case is crush-resistant to withstand pressure from other baggage.

Remove batteries if checking your drone

Airlines do not allow lithium batteries in checked luggage due to fire risks. If you must check your drone:

Remove all batteries before placing the drone in your checked bag.
Pack batteries in your carry-on, following airline watt-hour limits. Some airlines will allow you to leave one battery installed in the drone (not loose) if it is being placed in checked-in luggage.
Keep batteries protected in a LiPo bag.

Use a LiPo safety bag

Lithium-polymer (LiPo) batteries are commonly used in drones but can catch fire if damaged. To reduce risks, many airlines require spare batteries to be stored in a fireproof LiPo bag.

How to Pack Batteries Safely:

Place each spare battery in an individual LiPo safety bag.
Cover battery terminals with tape or use plastic caps to prevent short circuits.
Store batteries in a cool, dry place in your carry-on.

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4. Going Through Airport Security

When passing through airport security, follow these steps:

You may be required to remove your drone from your bag
- Place it in a separate bin, just like a laptop.
- Security officers may want to inspect it more closely.
Carry a printout of airline battery rules.

Security officers may not always be familiar with drone battery regulations, especially if you’re travelling through different countries. A printed copy of your airline’s battery policy can help avoid misunderstandings.

Why Carry a Printout?

Clarifies watt-hour limits for drone batteries.
Reduces delays if security questions your equipment.
Provides proof that your batteries comply with airline regulations.

Tips:

Your airline’s drone and battery policy is on its website. Print it or save a digital copy on your phone for easy access.
If security officers question your batteries, show them the Wh rating printed on the battery and airline guidelines to show that the batteries comply.

5. Connecting Flights

If you have a layover in a country with strict drone laws, there is a risk that customs could seize your drone, even if it remains packed in your luggage and you don’t plan to fly it there. Some countries classify drones as restricted or prohibited items, meaning they can be confiscated at security checkpoints or customs during transit.

For example, Emirates states on its website that drones are not allowed on flights to Jordan.

If in doubt, contact your airline or transit airport before flying. You may need permits or official approval to carry your drone through certain locations.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with a drone is possible but requires planning and awareness of airline and country rules. The most important things to remember are:

Check the airline rules for carrying your drone.
Always carry your drone batteries in carry-on luggage.
Know the watt-hour limit for lithium batteries.
Check local drone regulations before flying.
Use a proper case to protect your drone.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth journey with your drone and focus on capturing breathtaking aerial shots from your travels. Happy flying!

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About: Lisa Bundesen

Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.

We would love you to join us on our journeys and hope that our adventures give you encouragement to explore this amazing world.

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