Battery Transport

The possibility of transporting a lithium battery / cell by air depends on:

  • Its configuration and watt-hour capacity (Wh), in the case of rechargeable batteries,
  • Or lithium content (LC) in the case of non-rechargeable batteries.

 

Refer to the following table to determine if your battery can be accepted:

(To convert Amperes-hour (Ah) to Watts-hour (Wh), multiply Ah by the voltage.)

 

 Conditions of carriage

  • The terminals of the replacement batteries should be protected against short circuits.
  • Batteries should be transported in their original packaging or tapes should be applied to the terminals or each battery / battery should be placed in an individual plastic bag.
  • Replacement batteries / batteries cannot be placed in hold baggage.
  • Batteries inserted in equipment (portable computers, cameras, mobile phones, etc.) must be disabled and cannot be accidentally activated when placed in the hold baggage.

 

Examples of Lithium Batteries / Batteries:

  • Small lithium batteries and batteries include mobile phone batteries, watch batteries, MP3 player batteries, as well as most original laptop batteries. The maximum capacity of this type of batteries is 100 watt-hours (Wh).
  • Medium-sized lithium batteries and batteries include larger batteries and batteries, such as some long-life batteries for portable computers, as well as batteries used in professional audio-visual equipment. A “medium” battery generates between 100 and 160 watt-hours of power.
  • Large lithium batteries and batteries are intended for industrial use. A large rechargeable battery generates more than 160 watts-hour of power. Large batteries can be found in certain electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as mobility devices and motorcycles.
  • If equipment or a lithium battery is damaged or seems damaged and is taken on board, it must be placed by the owner in a visible place, it must be completely unlit (not in flight mode), protected from accidental activation (with all functions turned off, such as alarms, which may eventually activate it), and not be charged at any time.
  • Passengers must immediately inform the cabin crew in case the device / battery is overheated, damaged, lie down smoke, and if lost or falls into the seat structure.

 

Exception to wheelchair battery

Although batteries containing liquid that can spill normally are not allowed in cabin or hold baggage, they may be transported if they are part of the passenger’s electric wheelchair. The battery must be removed from the wheelchair and transported in a special container.

If a passenger has a wheelchair with a battery containing liquid that can spill, it is necessary to arrive early at the airport informing the check-in staff.

 

Liquid batteries (may spill)

These batteries are considered dangerous cargo, but can be accepted. The Airline must have prior knowledge to ensure that the handling requirements are in accordance with the regulations. This type of batteries is only accepted as a charge.

 

Dry batteries (ponds)

These batteries are not considered a dangerous load and must be thoroughly tested before a manufacturer can label the battery as dry or leakproof. They are not accepted as hold baggage.

Note: Other types of batteries, such as nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cad) batteries and alkaline batteries, may be safely transported in carry-on or hold baggage provided they are protected against short circuits.