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Can You Take a Drone On a Plane
Can You Take a Drone on a Plane?
Find out if it's okay to bring your drone along for the ride!
Image Credits: Pixlr
Who does not love drones? If you didn’t, you certainly would not be reading this post. This ingenious marvel of human creation has transformed how we see the world, from breathtaking travel photography to groundbreaking scientific research. But if you are ready to take your drone on an adventure, you might be wondering – “Can you take A Drone on a Plane?”
This is a question that I have been asked multiple times as a drone expert. And while the answer to this might seem simple enough at first, such is not the case. However, you don’t need to worry, as the following guide will help you with this.
Can You Bring a Drone on a Plane?
The straightforward answer to that is yes. Yes, you absolutely can bring drones in flight. However, before you pack your bags, there are several things you must note down. From airline policies to battery restrictions and international laws, traveling with your drone requires careful preparation.
Some General Guidelines for Drone Travel
Image Credits: Google Gemini
Before you even think about flying with a drone, there are a few crucial steps you need to take to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your flying companion.
- Check with your airlines about this. Airlines have their own specific policies regarding drones, and you need to respect that. Get up-to-date info directly from their website or reach out to their customer support.
- You must understand battery restrictions before you can take a drone on an international flight or even a domestic one. Lithium-ion batteries, the power source for most drones, are considered a potential hazard during flights.
- Finally, you must also do your research when it comes to using drones at your destination. Drone laws can vary significantly, not just between countries but even between states or counties. Thoroughly researching drone laws will only help you.
Understanding Battery Restrictions on Airplanes
We have already established that airplanes have battery restrictions, which complicates your question: Can you take a drone on a plane? Since lithium-ion batteries power most drones, let’s dive deeper into the specific limitations you need to know before you even step foot in an airport.
Common Limits for Drone Batteries
Image Credits: Google Gemini
- Carry-on Only: Batteries that are under 100 watts-hours (Wh) are typically permitted to travel in a plane. However, do note that they must be packed in your carry-on luggage. You can carry as many drone batteries as possible under this limit on your flight.
- Approval Required: Now, if you are carrying drone batteries above the 100 Wh mark but under 160, you may be permitted to carry two such batteries with you on the flight. Approval for such carry is required in advance, so contact the carrier beforehand.
- Prohibited: Carrying batteries exceeding 160 Wh is not typically permitted on commercial flights.
How to Find Your Battery’s Rating?
You can easily find your drone’s battery rating directly printed on it. If that is not the case, or the battery rating is not clear, contact the drone’s manufacturer for the exact rating. You would be required to submit it when requesting approval from your carrier.
Packing Your Drone for Air Travel
- Invest in Protection; Use a hard-shell case that is specially designed for your drone model
- Don’t forget that your drone batteries should be stored in your carry-on luggage
- Discharge your battery down to 50% or less
- Store batteries in fireproof bags
- Clearly label your drone case with your name and contact information
- Don't forget to pack your drone's charger and any necessary adapters for your destination country
Final Words
There you have it folks – the answer to your ‘Can you bring a drone on a plane?’ query. Sure, the answer might not be as simple as you might have wished for, but you now have all the information you need to make an informed decision in regards to taking a drone on a flight.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Yes, you can take your DJI drone on a plane. However, you would be wise to check with your airline for specific policies, as they can vary. You might even be required to carry your drone in your carry-on bag. Also, note that there are strict regulations regarding the size of batteries permitted on board.
Most airlines in the US allow you to carry drones as part of carry-on luggage. However, some airlines may require smaller drones to be checked. Always confirm the airline’s policy in advance before making your bookings.
Yes, your drones can go through airport security screening like any other carry-on items. Be prepared to remove the drone from its case. Also, remember that drone batteries must be in your carry-on luggage. Your drone and accessories may be subject to additional inspection.
Why trust Brownspace?
At Brownspace, we write about what matters most to the audience. We do well-researched work to provide in-depth knowledge of drones. Additionally, we interview people using drones to ensure the credibility of the drones used and offer real-life user experience to our readers.
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Hi, drone enthusiasts! Born with a natural curiosity for the skies, I developed a love for drones early in life. I began flying drones in 2017 and have since piloted some of the best drones available, such as the Yuneec Typhoon, DJI Mini, Mavic Pro, Hover Camera, and Phantom 3. With passion for drones and expertise gained over the years, I would love to share my knowledge of drones at Brownspace. Stay tuned for an insider’s perspective about drones.
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