Whether it’s a weekend break or a business trip, if you’re flying with Lithium-ion batteries, you need to know the rules before you go.
These powerful, rechargeable batteries have revolutionised how we live, but they also have the potential to cause fires, explosions and even mid-flight emergencies, which is why UK airports and airlines have strict policies about how, when, and even if you can travel with them.
As we approach the peak holiday season, we want to help you understand the different rules and regulations for travelling with Lithium-ion batteries in your luggage or pocket so that you have a safe and compliant trip.
Why are Lithium-ion batteries regulated in air travel?
Lithium-ion batteries store a lot of energy in a small space. When damaged, overheated or defective, they can experience thermal runaway; a chain reaction that causes them to heat rapidly and uncontrollably, catch fire or even explode.
These fires are difficult to extinguish and can release toxic gases. In an aircraft cabin or cargo hold, that’s a serious hazard.
According to UK insurer Aviva, approximately one in nine Brits has experienced a fire or explosion from Lithium-ion batteries at home.
Now, imagine the risk in an enclosed aircraft cabin.
That is why you’ll find a series of strict, but sensible, rules at the check-in desk (and from your airline when you book your flights), and it’s your responsibility to understand and follow them to avoid any issues with your devices (or yourself) being banned from the flight.
What you can and cannot take on a plane
According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the regulator for air travel in the United Kingdom, passengers are permitted to take the following items onto a plane in their hand luggage and must not be checked in with suitcases and other large bags for the hold:
- Lithium-ion batteries under 100Wh (this includes mobile phones, tablets, laptops and cameras)
- Spare batteries and power banks/portable chargers under 100Wh
- Medical devices and similar products between 100 and 160Wh (with prior airline notification and approval)
Prohibited items in hold luggage include:
- Spare Lithium-ion batteries of any form (including those used for vapes and power banks/portable chargers)
- E-scooters and e-bikes (unless the battery has been removed, declared and approved at check-in)
- Power tools (as most contain over the permitted 160Wh)
If you are in any doubt about what you can and cannot travel with, contact your airline in advance or you can read the full guidelines from the UK CAA here.
Are there different rules for travelling with different airlines?
We have researched the individual policies from four major UK airlines (British Airways, EasyJet, Ryanair and Jet2) to identify nuances that passengers should be aware of. In most cases, the individual airlines will take a standardised approach by following the recommendations of the CAA, but there are some differences.
For example, CAA guidelines state that passengers can travel with devices up to 100Wh, but British Airways and Ryanair have a cap of 15 devices (unlike EasyJet and Jet2, who do not have a limit).
When it comes to travelling with spare batteries, British Airways stipulates that there is a limit of up to 20 spare batteries per passenger, while Jet2 must approve passengers to take 100 to 160Wh spares on board.
Finally, power banks/portable chargers must be taken in hand luggage only on British Airways and EasyJet flights, and must be declared for passengers travelling with Ryanair.
All of these airlines have their policies available to view on their websites, and links can be found here:
5 top tips for travelling safely with Lithium-ion batteries
Whether you’re going on a long flight to an exotic destination, a short trip for a weekend city break or even a quick flight for a meeting, safety starts before you head off to the airport.
As we’ve already covered in this article, the UK CAA set out some strict guidelines to ensure that everyone travels safely with Lithium-ion batteries (even if they’re not taking their own). To ensure that you adhere to these guidelines and to avoid any issues at the check-in desk, here are five top tips:
- Know your Wh rating. Your battery will always have a Wh (watt-hour) rating, which is usually on the reverse. Airlines use this as a guideline, so check this before you pack.
- Store spare batteries, portable chargers and power packs safely. Be sure to declare them if your airline stipulates that you must do so.
- Don’t travel with damaged batteries/items. You wouldn’t use them at home if they’re damaged, so be responsible by not travelling with faulty or damaged chargers, batteries or cables.
- Use specialist storage for travelling. Fire-resistant bags or containers are great for protecting batteries against bumps.
- Never pack batteries in your hold luggage. All of the airlines we researched, and the UK CAA, state that passengers should never pack batteries in their hold luggage.
Where can you get more advice on Lithium-ion batteries?
The best place to find accurate, detailed advice on the risks surrounding Lithium-ion batteries is on our CPD-certified course: “An Introduction to Lithium-ion Battery Fires: A Burning Issue in Today’s World.”
Delivered by the Firechief® Academy, this course is available in two parts – an introduction and an intermediate, level two course – which will give you a thorough understanding of how to manage devices, mitigate the risk and make vital changes at home and in the workplace.
Click here to book your place.
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Disclaimer
The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and, where necessary, to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader's risk.