Transport of lithium batteries
See here the restrictions for carrying rechargeable batteries or lithium content
Transport of lithium batteries
The possibility or impossibility of carrying a lithium battery by air depends on:
- its configuration and watt-hour (Wh) capacity for rechargeable batteries
- or lithium content (LC) for non-rechargeable batteries.
Look at the table below to see whether your battery will be accepted:
|
Watt-hour (Wh) or lithium content |
Configuration | Hand Baggage | Hold Baggage | Operator’s approval |
| 100 Wh (2g) |
In the equipment |
Yes | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement | Yes (no limit) | No | ||
|
between 100 and 160 Wh |
In the equipment | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Replacement | Yes (max. 2) | No | ||
| over 160 Wh | Must be declared and carried as cargo in accordance with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations | |||
In order to convert amperes-hour (Ah) to Watts-hour (Wh), multiply Ah by voltage.
Replacement batteries' terminals must be protected against short circuits. Batteries must therefore be carried in their original packaging or adhesive tape must be placed on the terminals or each battery must be placed in an individual plastic bag.
Replacement batteries must not be packed in hold baggage.
Batteries in devices such as laptop computers, cameras, mobile phones, etc must be deactivated and steps must be taken to ensure that they cannot be activated accidentally when in hold baggage.
Examples of lithium batteries
- Small lithium batteries include mobile phone batteries, watch batteries, MP3 batteries and most original laptop computer batteries. Their maximum capacity is 100 watts-hour (Wh).
- Medium-size lithium batteries include larger batteries, such as some long-lasting laptop computer batteries and those used in professional audiovisual equipment. A medium-size battery generates 100 to 160 watts-hour.
- Large batteries are mainly those for industrial use. A large rechargeable battery generates more than 160 watts-hour. Large batteries are found in certain electric and hybrid vehicles and motorcycles and mobility devices.
Wheelchair Battery Exception
While spillage wet batteries are normally not allowed on aircraft or checked or carry-on baggage, passengers can bring them on an aircraft if they are part of a passenger’s electrical wheelchair. The battery will have to be removed from the wheelchair and transported in a special container.
If a passenger has a wheelchair with a spoilable battery, it is necessary to arrive early at the airport and notify check-in staff that the battery is a wet spillable battery.
Wet Batteries (Spillable)
These batteries are considered as dangerous goods, but can still be accepted. The Carrier must know about them to ensure the handling requirements are in accordance with the regulations. Wet batteries are only acceptable as cargo.
Dry Batteries (Non Spillable)
These batteries are not considered as dangerous and must be thoroughly tested before a manufacturer is allowed to label the battery as dry or non spillable. Dry batteries are not acceptable as checked baggage.
