Originally Posted by
docbert
Lithium batteries are allowed in check luggage when they are installed in a device as long as they are packed properly and fully turned off. Spare batteries (including things like USB charging packs) are not allowed in checked luggage.
So in the case of a drone, both the drone and the controller can be carried in checked bags even with a battery installed in them. Any additional batteries will need to go in carry-on as you've said, even if they are in something like a charging dock (which most likely doesn't qualify as being installed in a device).
It's possible there are individual countries with different rules, but these are the global standards
set by IATA which are followed by at least most countries and airlines.
Note that I'm not saying you *should* put a drone in your checked luggage, just that it is allowed. There's probably other reasons to carry it on instead, and several good reasons NOT to carry it on (security in Oman took great interest in my hand-held GPS a few years back - I can only guess what their response to a drone in carry-on bags would be!)
You cannot simply put a battery pack in your checked luggage. It can get accidentally crushed and ignite your clothes. Li-ion battery is considered as DANGEROUS GOODS. Li-ion can be carried as air cargo as UN3480 or UN3481. Note that:
- It has to be properly packed (not with other combustible; with enough protection and enough isolation to prevent an accidental battery fire to grow uncontrollably, etc.)
- It has to be properly declared (follow the appropriate procedure per IATA and airline regulations, including W*h rating, built-in protection circuit, etc.)
- It has to be properly labelled (UN3480 or UN3481, as appropriate, etc.).
- There is a limit on the W*h allowed as part of air cargo flown on passenger planes. Beyond this limit, it has to travel on a cargo plane.
- Not all batteries are created equal. Some are safer than others. A good cell can include safety features such as protection circuit, vent, etc. Some cells are intrinsically safe by design, that it can be crushed or take a bullet and it won't catch fire.
- Ultimately, the captain of the flight has the final say on whether to accept the cargo on his/her flight.