Batteries not allowed on airplanes fall into three main categories: spare lithium batteries in checked baggage, lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160 watt-hours, and any battery that is damaged, defective, or under recall. These restrictions exist because lithium-based batteries can overheat and cause fires in the cargo hold, where crew cannot respond quickly.
Batteries not allowed on airplanes: the quick answer
If you are packing for a flight, the batteries you must leave at home or carry only in specific ways are spare lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries in checked luggage, any lithium-ion battery over 160 watt-hours, and any battery with a cracked case, bulge, leak, or active recall notice. Power banks and cell phone charging cases count as spare lithium batteries and face the same rules. Understanding these three categories will keep your bags safe from security confiscation.
Spare lithium batteries and power banks: carry-on only
All uninstalled lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and battery charging cases, are prohibited in checked baggage. They must go in your carry-on bag. If you check a bag at the gate or planeside, you must remove every spare lithium battery and power bank and keep them with you in the cabin. This rule exists because a fire in the cargo hold is far harder to detect and extinguish than one in the passenger cabin.
Lithium-ion batteries over 160 watt-hours
Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries that exceed 160 watt-hours are absolutely forbidden on any passenger aircraft. Large batteries over 160 Wh are found in some professional camera rigs, electric skateboards, and medical devices. If you need a battery that large, it must ship as cargo on a freighter, not in the passenger cabin or hold.
Lithium metal batteries: lithium content limits
Lithium metal non-rechargeable batteries are restricted by their lithium content, not watt-hours. The limit is 2 grams of lithium per battery. Common button cells in watches and cameras contain far less than 2 grams and are allowed in carry-on. Larger lithium metal batteries, such as those used in some old camera flashes, may exceed this limit and require airline approval or be banned entirely. Lithium metal batteries with a rating of over 2 grams of lithium content may be permitted in carry-on baggage under certain conditions with airline approval.
Damaged, defective, or recalled batteries
Any battery with a damaged casing, bulging sides, leaking fluid, or an active recall from the manufacturer is not allowed on any aircraft, whether in carry-on or checked baggage. The only exception is if the damaged or recalled battery has been removed from the device and made safe, for example, by taping the terminals and placing it in a fireproof container. If you have a bulging phone battery, do not bring it to the airport; find a local electronics recycler and dispose of a lithium battery before your trip.
Baggage with non-removable lithium batteries
Smart luggage and other bags with built-in lithium batteries are forbidden if the battery exceeds 0.3 grams of lithium metal or 2.7 watt-hours and cannot be removed. If the battery is removable, you must take it out and carry it in the cabin if you check the bag. Many airlines now ban smart luggage entirely because passengers forget to remove the battery, so confirm with your airline before packing a bag with a built-in charger.
How to safely pack batteries that are allowed
Follow these steps to pass security without delay and keep your batteries safe:
- Protect the terminals: cover the positive and negative ends with non-conductive tape, or keep each battery in its original retail packaging.
- Place each battery in an individual plastic case or a separate zip-top bag so they cannot touch each other or metal objects like keys and coins.
- Keep batteries separated from metal objects in your bag to prevent short circuits that can cause overheating.
- For AA and AAA battery specs, note that standard alkaline cells have no lithium content and are unrestricted in both carry-on and checked baggage, but always keep them terminal-protected to avoid shorting.
- For allowed power bank sizes on flights, remember that any power bank under 100 watt-hours is fine in carry-on, those between 100 and 160 watt-hours need airline approval, and anything over 160 watt-hours is banned.
Carrying a copy of the product manufacturer's safety data sheet or a document certifying the battery's compliance with transportation regulations is recommended. Spare batteries should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring lithium-ion batteries in checked baggage if they are installed in a device?
Yes. Lithium-ion batteries installed in a laptop, phone, or tablet are allowed in checked baggage. The restriction applies only to spare, uninstalled batteries and power banks.
Are AA or AAA batteries allowed in checked luggage?
Yes. Standard alkaline AA and AAA batteries have no lithium content and are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. Nickel-metal hydride rechargeable AA batteries are also allowed. Always protect the terminals to prevent short circuits.
Can I bring a power bank on an international flight?
Yes, but only in your carry-on baggage. International flights follow the same IATA rules: power banks under 100 Wh are allowed without approval, and those between 100 and 160 Wh require airline permission. Power banks over 160 Wh are banned on all passenger flights.
What happens if I accidentally pack a spare lithium battery in my checked bag?
Security screeners will likely remove the battery and may confiscate it. You could be asked to open your bag, and the item will not be returned. In some cases, your entire bag may be held for additional screening.
How should I dispose of a lithium battery before a flight?
Do not throw lithium batteries in household trash. Take them to a local electronics retailer, household hazardous waste facility, or battery recycling drop-off. Tape the terminals before disposal to prevent short circuits during transport.
