What kind of lithium batteries are not allowed on airplanes?

Forbidden Lithium: Understanding Battery Restrictions on Airplanes

Lithium batteries power much of our modern portable world, from smartphones to laptops and even power tools. But their energy density, the very property that makes them so useful, also presents a fire risk, leading to stringent regulations for air travel. Understanding these rules can save you the hassle of surrendering valuable items at the airport.

While you can generally bring devices containing lithium batteries in both carry-on and checked baggage, the rules surrounding spare lithium batteries, particularly larger lithium-ion batteries, are more complex. The key dividing line is the Watt-hour (Wh) rating.

The most critical restriction targets spare lithium-ion batteries exceeding 100 Wh in checked baggage. This is a blanket ban. These larger batteries are often found in extended-life laptop batteries, some power banks designed for camping or professional use, and various other portable electronic equipment. Putting these in your checked bag presents a significant fire risk in the cargo hold, where suppression systems might not immediately reach a potential blaze.

Think of it this way: you can bring your laptop containing a high-capacity battery in checked baggage. But packing a separate, spare battery of the same capacity is prohibited. This is because batteries installed in devices are generally considered less prone to damage and accidental short circuits during transport.

What about batteries under 100 Wh? While often permitted in checked luggage, they are subject to further stipulations:

• Protection from short circuits: Spare batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits. This can mean storing them in their original retail packaging, using insulating tape to cover the terminals, or placing each battery in a separate protective pouch or case. Loose batteries rattling around in your bag are a definite no-go.

• Airline-specific regulations: Although the 100 Wh limit is a widespread standard, airlines may impose additional restrictions. Always check your specific airline’s regulations before traveling to avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport.

Carry-on allowances for spare lithium batteries are generally less restrictive than those for checked luggage. However, they still have limitations. While many smaller power banks and batteries are allowed in carry-on bags, some airlines might have specific limits on the number or total Wh you can carry. Again, checking with your airline beforehand is crucial.

Beyond the Wh rating, other factors like the battery’s chemical composition (lithium-ion versus lithium-metal) can also influence the regulations. Extremely high-capacity batteries (over 160 Wh) typically require pre-approval from the airline, even for carry-on luggage.

In summary, understanding the regulations concerning lithium batteries is essential for smooth air travel. Remember the 100 Wh limit for spare lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage, protect your spare batteries from short circuits, and always consult your airline’s specific policies to ensure compliance and avoid potential delays or confiscation of your belongings.