Yes, you can take a drone on a plane — but there are a few rules. As DJI explains, yes you can take a drone on a plane as either a piece of carry-on luggage, or as a piece of checked luggage, depending on its size. But, no matter what, you must take out the drone's batteries and put those in your carry-on bag.
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Most drones are powered with lithium-ion batteries and are required by the FAA to be stored in your carry-on baggage.
Special Travel Considerations for ForeignersWhether you plan to fly for fun or for work, you must register your drone with the FAA using the FAADroneZone portal. If you plan to fly your drone for recreation in the U.S., you must take The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) required by the FAA.
Batteries rated for 101 to 160 watt hoursBatteries installed in a drone are acceptable as well as up to two spare batteries in your carry-on. These batteries installed in a drone are also able to be checked, again with airline approval. However, spare batteries of this size cannot be packed in checked baggage.
Generally speaking, rechargeable lithium ion batteries used in most drones (less than 100 watt-hours) can be carried on a plane with you. Drone batteries that are larger than 100 watt-hours may still be acceptable, but there are some limitations.
Non-EU residents visiting EuropeYou also need to train and pass the drone pilot's certificate online exam and get the European certificate in any EASA Member State. Some National Aviation Authorities offer the training and exam in English. And of course, you need to comply with the European Drone regulations.
European Union Drone Regulations. According to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), flying a drone is legal in the European Union, but we recommend being aware of and compliant with the drone regulations listed below before doing so.
Drones are allowed through the TSA checkpoints, according to the TSA. That said, just because you can get your drone through the airport doesn't always mean you can bring your drone on the plane. Always check with your specific airline prior to traveling for their policy.
Checked Bags: NoSpare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only.
Spare (uninstalled) lithium metal batteries and lithium ion batteries, electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are prohibited in checked baggage. They must be carried with the passenger in carry-on baggage.
Lithium batteries can overheat and ignite under certain conditions, posing a fire hazard on aircraft. These fires can be challenging to extinguish and may cause severe damage to the airplane and its passengers.
Lithium metal (non-rechargeable) batteries are limited to 2 grams of lithium per battery. Lithium ion (rechargeable) batteries are limited to a rating of 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery. These limits allow for nearly all types of lithium batteries used by the average person in their electronic devices.