can you take a drone on a plane?

The allure of capturing breathtaking aerial footage from exotic locales is undeniably strong for drone enthusiasts. Imagine soaring over ancient ruins, pristine beaches, or majestic mountain ranges, recording memories from a unique perspective. But before you pack your bags and your beloved quadcopter, a crucial question arises: can you take a drone on a plane? The short answer is yes, you absolutely can, but not without navigating a comprehensive set of rules and regulations. It’s not as simple as tossing it into your luggage; there are specific guidelines from aviation authorities, individual airlines, and even destination countries that you must adhere to for a smooth journey.

Traveling with a drone requires meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of battery restrictions, packing procedures, and international laws. Missteps can range from minor inconveniences, like having your drone or batteries confiscated, to more severe issues that could disrupt your travel plans entirely. This isn’t just about avoiding a hassle; it’s about ensuring safety for everyone on board and protecting your valuable equipment. The good news is that with the right information and preparation, flying with a drone can be a seamless part of your travel experience, opening up a world of new photographic and videographic opportunities.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about taking a drone on a plane. We’ll delve into the intricacies of battery transportation, decode airline-specific policies, explain the roles of regulatory bodies like the FAA and TSA, and provide actionable tips for preparing your drone for its journey. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to travel confidently and legally, transforming what might seem like a daunting task into a straightforward process, ensuring your drone arrives safely and ready for its next flight.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

So, can you take a drone on a plane at all?

Yes, generally you can take a drone on a plane! However, there are important rules and restrictions you need to be aware of, especially concerning batteries.

Should I pack my drone in my carry-on or checked luggage?

It’s highly recommended to pack your drone itself in your carry-on bag to protect it from damage and keep it safe in the cabin.

What’s the deal with drone batteries when flying?

This is crucial! Lithium-ion drone batteries *must* be carried in your carry-on luggage, never in checked bags, due to fire risk. Make sure they are protected from short circuits.

Are there any size limits for my drone when I fly?

While the drone itself usually isn’t an issue, it still needs to fit within the standard carry-on size limits for your chosen airline. Always check your airline’s specific baggage dimensions.

Do the rules change if I’m flying internationally or with different airlines?

Absolutely! While general guidelines exist, always check with your specific airline and the destination country’s regulations before you travel, as rules can vary greatly when you take a drone on a plane.

The Golden Rule: Batteries, Batteries, Batteries!

When it comes to taking a drone on a plane, the absolute most critical factor isn’t the drone itself, but its power source: the lithium-ion (Li-ion) or lithium-polymer (LiPo) batteries. These powerful energy cells, while essential for flight, pose a significant fire risk if damaged, short-circuited, or improperly handled. Due to their volatile nature, particularly their potential for thermal runaway, aviation authorities worldwide have implemented stringent rules governing their transport. Ignoring these rules is the most common reason travelers encounter issues at airport security or with their chosen airline, making battery management the cornerstone of successful drone travel.

Understanding the watt-hour (Wh) rating of your drone batteries is paramount. Most consumer drones use batteries with capacities ranging from 30 Wh to over 100 Wh. The general rule of thumb, adopted by organizations like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and subsequently by most airlines and security agencies, is that batteries below a certain Wh limit are permitted, but usually only in carry-on baggage. Exceeding these limits or attempting to transport them incorrectly can lead to confiscation, fines, or even denial of boarding. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s a critical safety regulation designed to protect all passengers and crew from potential hazards posed by improperly handled high-energy batteries.

Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage for Drone Batteries

Here’s where the rules become crystal clear: drone batteries must always be carried in your carry-on baggage. This is a non-negotiable regulation enforced by the vast majority of airlines and aviation security agencies globally, including the TSA in the United States. The reason is simple: if a battery incident (like overheating or fire) occurs in the aircraft cabin, it can be immediately identified and addressed by the crew. In the cargo hold, an incident could go unnoticed until it’s too late, posing a severe threat to the aircraft and everyone on board. Therefore, never, under any circumstances, place your drone batteries in your checked luggage.

For batteries, specifically Li-ion and LiPo, the most commonly accepted guidelines are:

• Up to 100 Wh: Most individual batteries with a watt-hour rating of 100 Wh or less are permitted in carry-on baggage without special airline approval. You can typically carry a reasonable number for personal use, usually up to 2-3 spare batteries in addition to the one in your drone.
• 101 Wh to 160 Wh: Batteries in this range are also usually permitted in carry-on baggage, but you often need airline approval. Furthermore, there’s usually a strict limit on the number of such batteries, typically a maximum of two spare batteries per passenger.
• Above 160 Wh: Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are generally forbidden from being carried on passenger aircraft, either in carry-on or checked baggage. These are typically larger commercial drone batteries, and their transportation usually requires specialized cargo shipping.

To calculate the watt-hours (Wh) of your battery, use this formula: Watt-hours (Wh) = Amp-hours (Ah) x Volts (V). If your battery lists milliamp-hours (mAh), divide that number by 1000 to get Amp-hours (Ah) before applying the formula. For example, a 5000 mAh (5 Ah) 11.1V battery would be 5 Ah * 11.1V = 55.5 Wh.

Beyond placing them in your carry-on, each battery must be individually protected to prevent short circuits. This typically means:

• Placing them in a LiPo-safe bag (fire-retardant pouch).
• Taping over the terminals with electrical tape.
• Placing each battery in its own protective case or plastic bag.

These measures are crucial to prevent terminals from touching other metal objects or each other, which could cause a short circuit and potentially lead to a fire. Proper preparation of your batteries is the single most important step for a successful journey when you take a drone on a plane.

What About the Drone Itself?

While the batteries require stringent carry-on placement, the drone body, remote controller, and other accessories offer more flexibility. You have the option to pack the drone body in either your carry-on or your checked baggage. However, there’s a strong recommendation among drone pilots: always carry your drone in your carry-on baggage if possible.

Here’s why:

• Protection: Checked baggage can be subjected to rough handling. A drone, especially its delicate gimbal and camera, is susceptible to damage from impacts. Carrying it with you minimizes this risk.
• Security: Keeping your expensive equipment with you reduces the risk of theft.
• Accessibility: If security personnel have questions, your drone is right there for inspection.

If you must check your drone, ensure it’s packed in a robust, hard-shell case with custom foam inserts that snugly fit all components. Remove propellers, secure the gimbal with a protector, and ensure all fragile parts are well-cushioned. The remote controller, spare propellers, cables, and chargers can typically go in either carry-on or checked baggage without issue, though many prefer to keep the controller with the drone in carry-on for safety and convenience.

Navigating Airline-Specific Rules and Regulations

While global guidelines from bodies like IATA set the baseline for taking a drone on a plane, individual airlines often have their own specific policies that can be more restrictive. It’s a common mistake for travelers to assume that if they follow general aviation rules, they’re good to go. However, each airline reserves the right to impose additional restrictions on drone and battery transportation. This is why thorough research before booking your flight, and certainly before arriving at the airport, is absolutely vital. A quick check of your chosen airline’s official website will save you a lot of headaches and potential confiscations.

These airline-specific rules usually revolve around the same core issues: battery watt-hour limits, the number of spare batteries allowed, and how those batteries must be protected. Some airlines might have slightly different cut-offs for “airline approval needed” batteries, or they might limit the total number of spare batteries you can carry, even if they’re all under 100 Wh. For instance, while one airline might permit up to three spare batteries under 100 Wh, another might cap it at two. Always consult the “Dangerous Goods,” “Special Items,” or “Restricted Items” section of your airline’s website. If you can’t find clear information, call their customer service line directly and ask specific questions about drone travel and LiPo battery limits.

Major Airline Policies (Examples)

To give you an idea of what to expect, here’s a general overview of policies from some major airlines. **Please note: These are examples and are subject to change. Always verify with your specific airline.**

• Delta Airlines: Generally follows TSA guidelines. Batteries up to 100 Wh are allowed in carry-on. 101-160 Wh require airline approval (max 2 spares).
• United Airlines: Similar to Delta. Emphasizes battery terminal protection and carry-on only for spare Li-ion batteries.
• American Airlines: Also aligns with standard regulations. Batteries must be in carry-on baggage, terminals protected.
• Southwest Airlines: Adheres to FAA and TSA rules for lithium batteries. Advises carrying batteries in carry-on and protecting terminals.
• Ryanair / EasyJet (European Carriers): Often have clear guidelines on their websites. Typically allow batteries up to 100 Wh in carry-on, with specific limits on 101-160 Wh batteries (often 2 spares with prior approval). They are known for being quite strict.
• British Airways: Provides detailed information on portable electronic devices and batteries. Emphasizes carry-on for spare batteries and proper terminal protection.

The common thread among all these airlines is the strict enforcement of lithium battery rules, particularly the requirement for them to be in carry-on baggage and individually protected. Do not gamble on these rules; they are enforced for safety.

International Travel Considerations

Beyond airline rules, taking a drone on a plane for international travel introduces another layer of complexity: the destination country’s laws. It’s not enough to successfully get your drone onto the plane; you must also consider whether you can legally import it into your destination country and, crucially, whether you can legally fly it there. Many countries have their own unique drone regulations, registration requirements, no-fly zones, and permit systems. Some countries have outright bans on drones, while others have very lenient rules.

• Import Restrictions: Some nations may classify drones as restricted items, requiring special permits for import or even prohibiting them entirely. Research customs regulations for electronics and drones specifically.
• Registration: Many countries require drone registration, either for the drone itself or for the operator. This might be a simple online form or a more involved process.
• Permits and Licenses: For commercial operations, or even for recreational flying in certain areas, you might need specific permits or pilot licenses from the local aviation authority.
• No-Fly Zones: Be aware of sensitive areas, military installations, airports, national parks, and cultural heritage sites where drone flying might be restricted or forbidden.
• Privacy Laws: Be mindful of local privacy laws when flying your drone, especially in densely populated areas.

Failing to research and comply with the destination country’s drone laws can lead to your drone being confiscated at customs, fines, or even legal repercussions. Always check the official government websites of your destination country’s civil aviation authority or tourism board for the most up-to-date information on drone travel and usage. A simple search for “[Country Name] drone laws” is a good starting point.

FAA, TSA, and IATA: Understanding the Governing Bodies

When you’re trying to determine “can you take a drone on a plane?“, it’s essential to understand that various international and national organizations play a critical role in setting the rules. These bodies work together to ensure air travel safety, but they each have distinct purviews. Knowing who governs what helps clarify why certain regulations exist and how to best comply with them. While the airline implements the rules, these organizations are the architects behind them, especially concerning potentially dangerous items like lithium batteries.

TSA Guidelines for Drones on Planes

In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is the primary agency responsible for security screening at airports. When you bring your drone and its batteries to a U.S. airport, you’ll be interacting directly with TSA agents. Their main concern is security and safety, specifically preventing items that could pose a threat from entering the aircraft cabin or cargo hold. The TSA largely follows the IATA guidelines for lithium batteries and has clear stipulations regarding drones.

• Batteries: As discussed, TSA mandates that all spare lithium batteries (including those for drones) be carried in carry-on luggage only. They must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.
• Drones: Drones themselves can go in either carry-on or checked baggage. However, the TSA advises packing them securely to prevent damage or accidental activation. For carry-on, be prepared to remove the drone from its case for X-ray screening, much like laptops.
• Inspection: TSA agents may ask to inspect your drone or batteries. Be cooperative, and have battery specifications (Wh rating) readily available if requested.

The TSA website’s “What Can I Bring?” tool is an excellent resource for quick checks on specific items, including drones and lithium batteries. It consistently reiterates the carry-on rule for batteries, reinforcing its critical importance for anyone planning to fly with a drone.

IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a trade association of the world’s airlines. While it’s not a regulatory body in the governmental sense, its Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) are globally recognized and serve as the industry standard for transporting dangerous goods by air. These regulations are adopted by virtually all airlines worldwide, as well as by aviation authorities like the FAA and EASA. The IATA DGR provides comprehensive guidelines for classifying, packing, marking, labeling, and documenting dangerous goods, including lithium batteries.

• Standardization: IATA plays a crucial role in standardizing lithium battery transportation rules across different countries and airlines, which is why you see similar Wh limits everywhere.
• Safety: Their regulations are meticulously developed based on safety data and incident reports, constantly evolving to address new risks.
• Passenger vs. Cargo: The DGR distinguishes between batteries carried by passengers (which is our focus) and those shipped as cargo, with stricter rules for the latter.

Understanding that airlines base their rules on IATA’s DGR helps clarify why the “batteries in carry-on” rule is so universal and strictly enforced when you travel with a drone.

Other Regulatory Bodies (EASA, CAA, etc.)

While the FAA and TSA govern aviation in the U.S., other regions have their own authoritative bodies that issue regulations impacting drone travel and usage. These include:

• European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA): EASA is the civil aviation authority of the European Union. It sets the rules for drone operations and safety within EU member states. If you’re flying to or within Europe, EASA’s guidelines (and the specific national aviation authority rules, e.g., CAA in the UK, DGAC in France) are crucial for operating your drone legally.
• Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA): Almost every country has its own national CAA (e.g., UK CAA, Transport Canada, CASA in Australia). These bodies adapt and implement international standards, including IATA’s DGR, into their national laws. They also typically issue specific regulations for drone registration, licensing, and operational rules within their airspace.

These bodies influence not just whether you can take a drone on a plane but also whether you can legally fly it once you arrive. Always check the local civil aviation authority’s website for drone-specific regulations in your destination country.

Preparing Your Drone for Air Travel: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you understand the regulations, the next step is practical preparation. Properly packing and preparing your drone for air travel is key to ensuring its safety and preventing any issues with airport security or airline staff. A little foresight and attention to detail can make all the difference, transforming a potentially stressful experience into a smooth departure. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps, from pre-flight checks to packing essentials, ensuring your drone is ready for its aerial journey and for capturing stunning footage at your destination.

Pre-Flight Checklist for Your Drone

Before you even think about packing, perform these crucial steps to prepare your drone:

1. Charge Batteries Partially (30-50%): For safe storage and travel, LiPo batteries should ideally be charged to a “storage charge” of around 30-50%. This reduces their energy state, minimizing the risk of thermal runaway if damaged, and is often recommended by battery manufacturers. Never travel with fully charged or completely depleted batteries.
2. Remove Propellers: Detach all propellers from your drone. This prevents accidental activation, reduces the drone’s footprint, and protects the propellers from bending or breaking during transit.
3. Secure Gimbal and Camera: Most modern drones come with a gimbal protector or clamp. Ensure this is securely in place to prevent the delicate gimbal mechanism and camera from moving or being damaged by vibrations and impacts.
4. Protect Lenses: Use a lens cap or cover for your drone’s camera lens to prevent scratches.
5. Back Up Data: Before leaving, transfer any important footage from your drone’s SD card to a separate storage device. This ensures your valuable captures are safe, regardless of what happens during travel.
6. Remove SD Cards: While not mandatory, some pilots prefer to remove the SD card and keep it separate for added data security.
7. Power Off: Ensure your drone and remote controller are completely powered off, not just in standby mode.

Following this checklist is fundamental to safely taking a drone on a plane and protecting your investment.

Essential Drone Travel Accessories

Investing in the right accessories can significantly ease your drone travel experience and protect your gear:

• Drone-Specific Hard Case or Backpack: A high-quality hard case (like those from Pelican or Nanuk) with custom foam inserts or a specialized drone backpack offers the best protection against impacts and elements. These are designed to hold your drone, batteries, controller, and accessories snugly.
• LiPo Safe Bags: These fire-retardant bags are specifically designed to contain a battery fire. Place each individual drone battery inside its own LiPo bag before putting them in your carry-on. This is a crucial safety measure and often a requirement.
• Battery Terminal Protectors: Small plastic caps or electrical tape can be used to cover the metal terminals of your batteries, preventing short circuits.
• Propeller Guards/Straps: While you’ll remove the propellers, if you choose to keep them with the drone body (in carry-on), propeller straps can keep them together and prevent them from damaging other items.
• Desiccant Packs: If traveling to humid climates, placing a few desiccant packs in your drone case can help absorb moisture and protect electronics.
• Power Bank: While not for drone batteries, a compact power bank can be useful for charging your phone or controller, but remember the same Li-ion battery rules apply to power banks (carry-on only, usually under 100 Wh).

Documentation You Might Need

While often not required, having certain documents readily available can streamline airport security checks and customs, especially for international travel:

• Proof of Ownership: A receipt or invoice for your drone can be useful, especially when entering a new country, to prove you’re not importing it for sale and to avoid duty fees.
• Drone Registration: If your drone is registered with your national aviation authority (e.g., FAA in the U.S.), have a copy of your registration certificate.
• Drone Insurance: Proof of drone liability insurance can be beneficial, particularly in countries that require it for flight.
• Battery Specifications: A printout of your drone battery’s specifications (showing the Wh rating) can be handy if a security agent questions your battery’s capacity. Often, the Wh rating is printed directly on the battery, which is even better.
• Copy of Airline Regulations: Having a screenshot or printout of your airline’s specific drone and battery policies can resolve any confusion with ground staff.
• Destination Country Drone Laws: For international trips, a summary or printout of the destination country’s drone laws and any required permits can prevent issues at customs or during your stay.

Being prepared with these items ensures you’re ready for any questions or inspections, making the process of taking a drone on a plane as smooth as possible.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even with thorough preparation, travelers sometimes encounter issues when taking a drone on a plane. Many of these problems stem from common oversights or a lack of detailed understanding of the rules. Being aware of these pitfalls beforehand can help you avoid them, ensuring your drone and travel plans remain intact. From battery mishaps to international law complexities, identifying these potential stumbling blocks is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable drone-enabled adventure. Proactive measures are always better than reactive solutions when dealing with aviation regulations.

Overlooking Battery Watt-Hour Limits

This is by far the most frequent and impactful mistake drone owners make. Assuming all drone batteries are fine for travel, or not knowing how to calculate their Wh rating, can lead to immediate issues. Many recreational drones use batteries just under or around the 100 Wh limit, but larger or prosumer models can easily exceed this, especially if they have multiple cells. The consequences of exceeding Wh limits or not seeking prior approval for 101-160 Wh batteries can include:

• Confiscation: At security checkpoints, batteries exceeding limits or lacking proper approval will almost certainly be confiscated. You will not get them back.
• Missed Flights: Dealing with confiscated items can cause significant delays, potentially leading you to miss your flight.
• Fines: In some jurisdictions, attempting to transport prohibited dangerous goods can result in fines.

Actionable Tip: Before every trip, re-check the Wh rating of all your drone batteries. If any are between 101-160 Wh, contact your airline well in advance to obtain approval and confirm their specific requirements. For anything over 160 Wh, plan alternative shipping methods (e.g., hazmat freight) or leave them at home.

Not Declaring Your Drone (International Travel)

While not universally required, some countries may require you to declare your drone upon entry, even for personal use. Failing to do so can create complications at customs:

• Customs Issues: Undeclared items, especially electronics, can be flagged, leading to delays and extensive questioning.
• Confiscation: If the drone is deemed to violate import regulations (e.g., restricted item, exceeding value limits without duty), it could be confiscated.
• Fines and Duties: You might be hit with unexpected import duties or fines for not declaring.

Actionable Tip: Always research the customs regulations of your destination country for electronics and drones. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and declare your drone. Having proof of purchase (receipt) showing it’s a personal item and not for commercial import can be very helpful.

Ignoring Destination Country Drone Laws

Successfully getting your drone through airport security and into your destination country is only half the battle. Many travelers overlook the crucial step of researching local drone laws, assuming that if they can bring it, they can fly it. This is a dangerous assumption.

• Legal Penalties: Flying in no-fly zones, without proper permits, or over private property can lead to hefty fines, drone confiscation, and even arrest in some countries.
• Loss of Drone: Local authorities may seize and destroy drones flown illegally.
• Reputational Damage: Illegal drone operation by tourists can lead to stricter regulations for everyone.

Actionable Tip: Before your trip, thoroughly research the drone laws for every country you plan to visit, including any layover countries if you plan to fly there. Look for information from the official Civil Aviation Authority or tourism board. Websites like Drone-Laws.com or UAV Coach often have good summaries, but always cross-reference with official sources. Consider joining local drone forums or Facebook groups for insights from other pilots.

Last-Minute Airport Scrambles

The rush of last-minute packing or arriving at the airport without ample time is a recipe for disaster when traveling with a drone. Overlooked details or rushed decisions at security can cause significant stress.

• Improper Packing: Forgetting to put batteries in LiPo bags, leaving propellers on, or not securing the gimbal due to haste.
• Insufficient Time: Being rushed through security means less time to explain your drone setup or address any questions from agents.
• Lack of Documentation: Not having necessary battery specifications or airline policy printouts readily accessible.

Actionable Tip: Always pack your drone and its accessories a day or two before your flight. Create a checklist and go through it methodically. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, especially if you plan to carry your drone. This buffer allows you to calmly navigate security and address any unexpected questions, ensuring a stress-free experience when you take a drone on a plane.

Data Table Section: General Airline Battery Policies (Example)

To provide a clear, at-a-glance reference, here’s a general table summarizing common airline policies regarding lithium batteries for drones. It’s crucial to remember that these are generalized examples and specific airline policies can vary and change. Always consult your chosen airline’s official website or customer service for the most current and accurate information before you travel with a drone.

Battery Wh Rating	Location (Carry-On/Checked)	Airline Approval Needed?	Max # of Spare Batteries (Typical)	Protection Requirement
Up to 100 Wh	Carry-on only	No	Usually 2-3 spares (beyond the one in the device)	Individual protection (LiPo bag, terminal tape, case)
101 Wh – 160 Wh	Carry-on only	Yes (prior airline approval required)	Limited to 2 spare batteries per passenger	Individual protection (LiPo bag, terminal tape, case)
Over 160 Wh	Not permitted on passenger aircraft (carry-on or checked)	N/A	N/A	Requires specialized cargo shipping as dangerous goods

This table underscores the critical distinction between carry-on and checked baggage for batteries, the importance of watt-hour limits, and the necessity of individual protection to prevent short circuits. Always remember to measure your batteries accurately and check your airline’s specific policies, as some may have even stricter limits or requirements.

Conclusion

The question “can you take a drone on a plane?” is met with a resounding yes, but as we’ve explored, that “yes” comes with significant caveats and critical responsibilities. Successfully traveling with your drone hinges on meticulous planning, a deep understanding of lithium battery regulations, adherence to airline-specific policies, and a thorough grasp of destination country laws. From the moment you pack your bags to the moment you launch your drone, every step requires attention to detail to ensure a seamless and legal experience. The primary takeaway remains: prioritize battery safety by always carrying them in your carry-on luggage, individually protected, and within permissible watt-hour limits.

By investing time in research and preparation, you can confidently navigate the complexities of drone travel. Remember to consult your airline’s official website, check TSA or equivalent national aviation authority guidelines, and, for international trips, diligently research the drone laws of your destination. Equipping yourself with the right knowledge not only protects your valuable drone and its components but also ensures your safety and compliance with global aviation standards. So, go ahead and plan those incredible aerial shots; with the right preparation, your drone can be your perfect travel companion, ready to capture the world from a breathtaking new perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take a drone on a plane?

Yes, you generally can take a drone on a plane, but there are specific rules and regulations you must follow, primarily concerning the drone’s batteries. These rules are in place for safety and vary depending on whether you pack your drone in carry-on or checked luggage.

What are the rules for drone batteries on a plane?

Lithium-ion batteries, like those used in drones, must almost always be carried in your carry-on luggage, not in checked bags. Each battery’s watt-hour (Wh) rating dictates the maximum number and size you can bring, with most airlines limiting batteries to 100 Wh or 160 Wh, and requiring terminals to be protected from short circuits.

Should I pack my drone in my carry-on or checked luggage?

It’s highly recommended to pack your drone itself in your carry-on luggage to protect it from damage and potential theft. Crucially, all lithium-ion drone batteries *must* be in your carry-on baggage due to fire risk regulations.

Are there different rules for taking a drone on an international flight?

Yes, international travel with a drone can involve additional complexities. Always check the specific drone import and usage regulations for your destination country, as well as the individual airline’s policies, before you fly, as rules can vary significantly.

What should I expect at airport security when traveling with a drone?

Be prepared to remove your drone and its batteries from your bag for separate screening, similar to laptops and other electronics. It’s advisable to have your drone’s manual or specifications handy if security personnel have questions about its battery capacity.

Are there size or weight restrictions for drones on planes?

While the TSA primarily focuses on battery safety for drones, airlines may have their own carry-on size and weight limits that could affect larger drones. Always consult your specific airline’s baggage policy, especially for carry-on items, before flying to ensure your drone complies.