Can You Take Camera Batteries On Planes?

May 27, 2023

Yes, but there’s a catch.

Owners of professional camera gear containing certain batteries are permitted to bring their cameras onboard the plane. However, it's important to note that there are specific rules enforced by aviation authorities, like the FAA or EASA, which are in place to ensure the safety of flights.

Standard batteries such as AA, AAA, C, and D can be freely taken onboard an aircraft without any restrictions. You can carry them in your carry-on or check them in your luggage, and there is no limit on the quantity allowed. However, they still must be "protected from damage and creating sparks or a dangerous evolution of heat," according to the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The regulations differ when it comes to lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries commonly found in smartphones, laptops, tablets, and camera equipment. According to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), lithium battery technology has a recognized risk due to its potential for rapid combustion.

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When it comes to lithium-ion batteries found in cameras, they are generally considered safe if they are installed inside the cameras. But despite not posing significant safety issue, the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) states that:

"Devices containing lithium metal batteries or lithium-ion batteries, including – but not limited to – smartphones, tablets, cameras, and laptops, should be kept in carry-on baggage. If these devices are packed in checked baggage, they should be turned completely off, protected from accidental activation, and packed so they are protected from damage."

According to civil aviation regulators, spare lithium metal (non-rechargeable) or lithium-ion (rechargeable) batteries should be carried by passengers in their carry-on baggage. Keeping these batteries with you is essential as loose lithium batteries in the cargo hold can pose a fire hazard without anyone available to intervene and stop the fire.

Here is what the FAA has to say about spare lithium batteries:

"Spare (uninstalled) lithium metal and lithium-ion batteries, electronic cigarettes, and vaping devices are prohibited in checked baggage. They must be carried with the passenger in carry-on baggage. Smoke and fire incidents involving lithium batteries can be mitigated by the cabin crew and passengers inside the aircraft cabin."

The FAA has set specific limits for lithium batteries on airplanes. For lithium metal batteries, the limit is 2 grams of lithium per battery, while for lithium-ion batteries, the limit is 100-watt hours per battery. These limits cover most of the lithium batteries used in everyday electronic devices, including cameras. However, with airline approval, passengers can carry up to two spare larger lithium-ion batteries (101-160 Wh) or lithium metal batteries (2-8 grams).

To prevent short circuits, it is crucial to protect the battery terminals. This can be done by using the manufacturer's packaging or covering the terminals with tape. It is also recommended to place the batteries in separate bags to ensure further protection.

Although cabin crew is capable of extinguishing a fire caused by a damaged lithium battery inside the cabin, the FAA advises against bringing such batteries onboard:

"Damaged, defective or recalled lithium batteries must not be carried in carry-on or checked baggage if they are likely to be a safety concern by overheating or catching on fire."

Sources: TSA, EASA, FAA