Molly Ayala
Electric longboards are a fun and portable way to get around, but when it comes to air travel, there are some important things to keep in mind. Electric skateboards are often powered by lithium-ion batteries, which are considered hazardous due to their potential fire risk. As a result, there are strict regulations in place for transporting them on airplanes, and these rules can vary between airlines. Some airlines may require you to remove the battery and carry it separately, while others may have specific size and weight restrictions. It's important to check with your airline and review the latest guidelines before your flight to ensure you're complying with the regulations. In some cases, you may need to ship your electric longboard as cargo or consider alternative transport options such as train or ground travel, which tend to have fewer restrictions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Agencies that decide what is and isn't allowed on airplanes | FAA, EASA, and TSA |
| Batteries prohibited by FAA, EASA, and TSA | Over 160WH |
| Number of batteries allowed by TSA | Two |
| Maximum battery watt-hours allowed by FAA, TSA, IATA, and EASA | 100Wh |
| Airlines that allow electric skateboards as carry-on or checked baggage | American Airlines and Delta Air Lines |
| Alternative options | Shipping via ground or sea freight, taking a train, or breaking your journey |
| Packing tips | Remove the battery and wrap it in a sturdy plastic case, pad the skateboard, and cover any exposed electronics |
| Tips to avoid issues with TSA | Pack the longboard in a golf bag |
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What You'll Learn
Check with your airline and review the latest TSA guidelines
When it comes to transporting an electric longboard on an airplane, it's crucial to be aware of the regulations and guidelines set by the relevant authorities and your chosen airline. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Check with Your Airline:
Different airlines have different policies and restrictions regarding the transportation of electric longboards. Some airlines may allow them as carry-on or checked baggage, provided they meet size, weight, and packaging restrictions. Others may have specific rules or even prohibitions. It is essential to visit the official website of your chosen airline and carefully review their guidelines on carrying electric longboards or skateboards. Understanding their specific requirements will help ensure a smooth travel experience.
Review the Latest TSA Guidelines:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) sets guidelines for items allowed in carry-on and checked baggage. Electric longboards, powered by lithium-ion batteries, are subject to specific regulations due to their potential fire risk. The TSA regulates the transportation of these batteries based on their size and watt-hour (Wh) rating. It's important to note that lithium-ion batteries with a rating of over 100Wh are typically prohibited from being transported in carry-on baggage. The TSA's official website provides valuable information on battery restrictions and guidelines, helping you understand how to safely transport your electric longboard's battery.
Understand Battery Restrictions:
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in electric longboards, often exceed the permitted carry-on thresholds. If your battery is between 101Wh and 160Wh, it is advisable to contact your airline and seek approval before travelling. Anything over 160Wh is strictly prohibited from being transported on any passenger airline. Additionally, some airlines may require you to remove the battery from the longboard and carry it separately in your carry-on baggage. Properly protecting the battery terminals to prevent short circuits is crucial.
Packaging and Safety:
When transporting your electric longboard, ensure it is properly packaged to prevent damage during transit. Remove any loose parts, secure the longboard in a suitable case or bag, and follow any additional instructions provided by your airline. It is also essential to declare your electric longboard to airline staff during check-in and comply with their instructions.
Alternative Options:
If you encounter challenges with airline regulations, there are alternative options for transporting your electric longboard. Ground transport, rail companies, and rental agencies often have more flexible policies regarding battery sizes. Additionally, you can consider shipping your electric longboard via ground or sea freight or purchasing local transportation at your destination.
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Remove the battery and carry it separately in an approved container
Electric longboards are a convenient mode of transport, but their batteries can be a concern when flying. The lithium-ion batteries used in electric longboards are powerful, typically ranging from 3000-5000mAh, which exceeds the FAA allowance of under 100 watt-hours for carry-on luggage. As such, it is important to remove the battery and carry it separately in an approved container when transporting your electric longboard on an airplane.
Firstly, you need to determine the watt-hours of your electric longboard's battery. This information can usually be found in the specifications provided by the manufacturer. If your battery exceeds 100 watt-hours, it is too powerful to be carried on the plane and must be removed and stored separately. Some batteries are designed to be easily removable, while others may require tools to detach them from the longboard.
Once you have removed the battery, it is important to wrap it securely and place it in an approved container. A sturdy plastic case is a suitable option for this purpose. Make sure the battery is protected and won't be damaged during transit. You can also cover the battery terminals to prevent short circuits and ensure the battery is inactive during transportation.
It is also essential to check the regulations of the specific airline you are travelling with. While the FAA, TSA, IATA, and EASA have a maximum limit of 100Wh for lithium-ion batteries in carry-on luggage, individual airlines may have their own policies and restrictions. Some airlines may require you to seek approval before travelling with a battery between 100Wh and 160Wh. Others may completely prohibit batteries exceeding a certain wattage. Therefore, it is crucial to consult the airline's guidelines and contact them if necessary to ensure you comply with their policies.
By following these steps and removing the battery, carrying it separately in an approved container, and adhering to airline regulations, you can transport your electric longboard on an airplane safely and securely.
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Package your longboard properly to prevent damage during transit
To transport an electric longboard on an aeroplane, you must package it properly to prevent damage during transit. Here are some detailed steps to help you do that:
Firstly, check the battery size of your electric longboard. Most airlines have strict regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in electric longboards. If your battery exceeds the permitted watt-hours, usually 100 Wh, it may be prohibited from being carried on the plane. Some airlines may allow batteries between 101 Wh and 160 Wh with prior approval, so contact your airline and discuss your options.
If your battery falls within the permitted range, you must still take precautions to protect the battery terminals and prevent short circuits. Wrap the battery securely and place it in a sturdy plastic case or a certified hazardous materials container, especially if you plan to ship it separately as air cargo. Put the packaged battery inside your checked luggage for added safety.
Now, let's focus on packing the longboard itself. You can use a snowboard bag, which is large enough to accommodate your longboard and provide protection. Alternatively, wrap the longboard in bubble wrap or foam to prevent scratches and damage during transit. If your longboard has exposed electronics, make sure to cover them appropriately.
Finally, clearly label your checked luggage, indicating that it contains a lithium-ion battery. This step is crucial for alerting airport staff to handle your baggage with care and ensuring your compliance with aviation safety regulations. Remember to stay updated with the latest guidelines from organisations like the FAA, IATA, EASA, and TSA, as regulations can change frequently.
By following these steps and adhering to airline guidelines, you can confidently transport your electric longboard on an aeroplane while minimising the risk of damage during the journey.
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Be mindful of size and weight restrictions
Electric longboards can be tricky to transport on aeroplanes due to their size and weight. The batteries they use are also subject to specific regulations due to their potential fire risk. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulates the transportation of lithium-ion batteries based on their size and watt-hour (Wh) rating. The TSA's official website says that two spare batteries may be brought onto the plane as long as they are no more than 160Wh, and that airline approval is needed. The FAA, TSA, IATA, and EASA all have a maximum limit of 100Wh for lithium-ion batteries in carry-on luggage on aircraft. Batteries bigger than what's allowed for carry-ons will need to be shipped as cargo or taken out and packed very safely in checked baggage. If your battery is between 101Wh and 160Wh, the FAA recommends contacting your airline to seek approval before travelling.
Most likely, you will have to check your board, as the maximum length of checked baggage is 62 inches. Some longboards may still not be short enough for this. If you want to carry your board onto the plane, you will need to check the size and weight restrictions of your airline. Some airlines may allow electric skateboards as carry-on or checked baggage, while others may have specific rules or prohibitions.
If you are travelling with a battery, you must declare it to airline staff during check-in and follow any instructions provided. It is also essential to check with your specific airline and review the latest TSA guidelines before your flight to understand the regulations and requirements for transporting electric longboards on aeroplanes. Regulations and policies may vary between airlines and could be subject to change.
One option for transporting your electric longboard is to pack it in a golf bag. This can make your interactions with the TSA much more enjoyable, and you can fit your extra wheels, helmet, gloves, etc., in the bag for no extra charge on some airlines.
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Consider alternative transport methods such as train or shipping
If you're considering alternative transport methods, such as trains, you'll be glad to know that electric longboards are a relatively new form of personal mobility transportation. They are easy to use, pack, and transport, making them a convenient option for commuters.
When travelling with an electric longboard on a train, it is advisable to have a way to secure it, such as using a backpack with large straps or bungee cords, to keep it stowed safely. Additionally, consider choosing a longboard with a removable battery, as these are easier to charge and transport.
If you're thinking of shipping your electric longboard, it's important to be aware of the regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries. Batteries may be considered hazardous materials, and regulations can vary depending on the location and carrier. If shipping within the United States, it will likely be transported via ground services. For international shipments, ensure your carrier has a license to ship hazardous materials.
To ensure your longboard arrives safely, consider disassembling it for shipping. This will allow you to pack and pad each part separately, reducing the risk of damage. Additionally, measure your longboard's dimensions to ensure it fits within the carrier's size limits and to get accurate shipping cost estimates.
By considering these alternative transport methods and taking the necessary precautions, you can confidently travel with your electric longboard without the complications that may arise when travelling by airplane.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric longboards are considered hazardous due to their lithium-ion batteries, which pose a fire risk. However, you can take your electric longboard on a plane if you follow certain guidelines.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) sets guidelines for items allowed in carry-on and checked baggage. The TSA, FAA, IATA, and EASA all have a maximum limit of 100Wh for lithium-ion batteries in carry-on luggage. If your battery is between 101Wh and 160Wh, the FAA recommends contacting your airline for approval. Anything over 160Wh is prohibited.
First, check your airline's policies, as they may vary. Some airlines may require you to remove the battery and carry it separately in carry-on baggage. Make sure you securely wrap the battery and place it in an approved container. Pad your longboard, cover any exposed electronics, and check both items securely in your luggage.
Yes, you can consider shipping it via ground or sea freight, taking a train, or renting local transportation at your destination.
