Handling Lithium Batteries During Air Travel

Lithium batteries power a wide range of modern devices. However, in air travel, they can pose a safety risk if not handled properly.

If a battery becomes damaged, overcharged, or exposed to heat, it may trigger a chain reaction known as thermal runaway, where the battery overheats, releases gas, and can catch fire.
For this reason, strict regulations apply to the transport and handling of lithium batteries in passenger air travel. Passengers are responsible for following these rules to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.

To help maintain safety onboard, we encourage all travellers carrying lithium batteries to follow the guidance issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA):

• Always carry spare batteries and power banks in your carry-on luggage, not in checked baggage.

• Keep e-cigarettes and similar devices in your carry-on, where they can be monitored.

• Ensure that batteries installed in devices are under 100 watt-hours (Wh). This includes most phones, tablets, and laptops.

• Contact your airline if you are travelling with larger batteries, such as those in drones or power tools. Batteries rated between 100 and 160 Wh may require special approval.

• Do not use power banks to charge devices during the flight. Use only the power outlets provided in the aircraft seats.

• Do not ignore airline-specific rules. Many airlines place limits on the number and size of devices and batteries, based on their energy capacity, which is measured in watt-hours (Wh).