Scooting Through Airports: Are Electric Scooters Permitted?

Electric scooters have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation, offering convenience and eco-friendliness for urban commuters. But what happens when you need to travel by air and want to bring your scooter along? The answer is a bit complex and depends on various factors, including the type of battery your scooter uses, the regulations of the airline you're flying with, and the country you're travelling to or from.

Lithium-ion batteries

When travelling with an electric scooter, it is important to first check the airline's specific requirements and restrictions. Most airlines will allow electric scooters as checked luggage, but some may have different specifications. For example, some airlines require the scooter to be stored in a particular area of the plane or packed in a specific way, such as in a protective case or bag.

In terms of battery specifications, most airlines require that electric scooters be powered by lithium-ion batteries with a watt-hour (Wh) rating of no more than 160Wh. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh may require prior airline approval, while those under 100Wh are typically allowed without special permission. It is important to check the battery specs of your scooter and obtain any necessary approvals from the airline.

To prepare your scooter for travel, disconnect the battery and wrap it in protective material, such as bubble wrap. If the battery is removable, it will likely need to be carried onboard as hand luggage, following the airline's regulations for lithium-ion batteries. Cover the battery terminals and package them in a sturdy box to protect them from short circuits. Additionally, fold or disassemble the scooter to fit within the airline's size and weight limits, and secure any loose parts to prevent damage during transit.

In summary, while electric scooters with lithium-ion batteries are generally allowed on airplanes, it is crucial to follow the specific guidelines and regulations of the airline you are travelling with. By properly preparing and packing your scooter, you can ensure a safe and hassle-free travel experience.

Airline requirements

Battery Specifications:

Most airlines have strict regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries due to safety concerns. The watt-hour (Wh) rating of the battery is crucial. Batteries under 100Wh are typically allowed, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh may require prior approval from the airline. Batteries exceeding 160Wh are generally prohibited. Removable batteries may need to be carried in hand luggage, following specific packaging and handling procedures.

Size and Weight Limits:

Your scooter must adhere to the airline's baggage size and weight restrictions. Most airlines have limitations on the combined length, width, and height of checked baggage, typically around 62 inches (157 cm). Checked baggage weight limits vary but usually range from 23 kilograms to 32 kilograms. Additional fees may apply if your scooter exceeds these limits.

Documentation:

It is essential to have the necessary documentation, including the scooter's manual, specifications sheet, and proof of ownership. A safety certificate for the battery and a printout of the airline's policy on transporting electric scooters can also be helpful in ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Packing and Protection:

Airlines may have specific requirements for packing and protecting your scooter. This can include folding, disassembling, or placing the scooter in a protective case or bag to prevent damage during transit. Proper protection of the battery is crucial, such as covering terminals with non-conductive caps or tape and storing the battery in a lithium battery bag or a protective case.

Advance Notification and Approval:

It is recommended to contact the airline well in advance of your travel date to notify them about your electric scooter. This will allow them to provide any specific requirements or preparations needed, such as battery disposal, scooter size, or special handling instructions. Some airlines may require prior approval for certain battery sizes or scooter models.

Check-in and Security:

Arrive at the airport early to allow sufficient time for check-in and security screenings. Inform the airline staff about your electric scooter and provide any required documentation. Be prepared to explain the battery's safety features to security personnel and follow their instructions.

Boarding and Storage:

Follow the flight attendants' instructions for storing your scooter during the flight. If allowed as carry-on, ensure it meets the size restrictions and can be stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat. If checked, make sure it is properly marked and handled as fragile baggage.

Additional Fees and Insurance:

Airlines may charge additional fees for transporting electric scooters, including excess baggage fees or special handling charges. Consider purchasing additional insurance to cover any potential loss or damage to your scooter during transit.

Alternative Options:

If you are unable to bring your electric scooter on the plane, alternative options include shipping it separately, renting or subscribing to a scooter at your destination, or purchasing and reselling a scooter locally. These options can provide greater convenience and peace of mind.

Preparing and packing your scooter

Before you even begin to pack your scooter, it is important to do your research. Check the airline's requirements, as each airline has different regulations and restrictions. Most airlines will allow electric scooters as checked luggage, but some may have specific packaging requirements. It is also important to note that different countries have different customs requirements for the import and export of electrified products, so be sure to check these as well.

Once you have confirmed that your airline allows electric scooters, the next step is to prepare your scooter for transport. Disconnect the battery and wrap it in bubble wrap or another protective material. If your scooter has a removable battery, you will likely need to carry it in your hand luggage. Make sure to cover the terminals with tape and place the battery in a protective case to prevent short circuits. Secure any loose parts on the scooter to prevent damage during transit, and fold or disassemble the scooter to fit within the airline's size and weight limits.

When packing your scooter, it is recommended to use a protective case or bag designed specifically for electric scooters. This will help prevent damage to your scooter and other luggage. If you do not have a scooter bag, consider using a hard-shell suitcase, golf bag, or another durable container. Make sure to pack your scooter securely and follow any specific instructions provided by the airline.

In addition to preparing and packing your scooter, there are a few other things to keep in mind. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation, including the scooter's manual, proof of ownership, and any safety certificates. It is also a good idea to print out the airline's policy on transporting electric scooters to avoid any confusion during check-in. Finally, arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, as checking an electric scooter can take longer than checking regular luggage.

Scooter retrieval

Retrieving your electric scooter after a flight is a straightforward process. Upon arrival at your destination, make your way to the baggage claim area, specifically the oversized luggage section. This is where you will be able to collect your scooter. It is important to carefully inspect your scooter for any potential damage that may have occurred during transit. Should you notice any issues, immediately report them to the relevant airline staff. By promptly reporting any damage, you can ensure that the necessary steps are taken to address the situation.

To ensure a smooth scooter retrieval process, it is advisable to arrive at the airport early and inform the check-in staff about your electric scooter. This allows them to properly handle and store your scooter during the flight. Additionally, having all the necessary documentation, such as battery specifications and compliance certificates, readily available can expedite the process and reduce potential delays.

Each airline may have specific procedures for scooter retrieval, so it is always a good idea to familiarise yourself with their guidelines. You can usually find this information on the airline's website or by contacting their customer service team. Knowing their requirements in advance can help you effectively navigate the retrieval process and avoid any unnecessary complications.

Remember, each airline has different regulations and restrictions regarding electric scooters. Therefore, prior knowledge of their specific requirements is essential. By following their guidelines and taking the necessary preparatory steps, you can confidently travel with your electric scooter and enjoy the convenience it offers at your destination.

International flight regulations

Electric scooters are not explicitly banned from being brought onto planes, but their batteries are classified as hazardous materials due to their potential fire risk. This means that there are strict regulations surrounding the transportation of electric scooters on flights. The specific regulations depend on the airline and the region, so it is important to check with the airline before travelling.

• If the battery capacity is less than 100Wh, passengers can carry the scooter in their hand luggage or checked baggage without prior approval from the airline.
• If the battery capacity is between 100-160Wh, passengers will need approval from the airline to carry the scooter in their hand luggage or checked baggage.
• If the battery capacity exceeds 160Wh, passengers are forbidden from carrying the scooter in their hand luggage or checked baggage.

It is important to note that most electric scooters have batteries with a capacity greater than 160Wh, so they are typically prohibited from being transported on planes. Additionally, the scooter must fit within the airline's size and weight limits, and passengers may need to comply with other regulations, such as protecting the battery from damage and short circuits.

To transport an electric scooter on an international flight, passengers should:

• Contact the airline in advance to confirm their specific requirements.
• Disconnect and protect the battery, and secure any loose parts.
• Fold or disassemble the scooter to fit within size and weight limits.
• Place the scooter in a protective case or bag to prevent damage.
• Arrive at the airport early and inform staff that you are travelling with an electric scooter.
• Provide any required documentation, such as battery specifications or approval for larger batteries.

Frequently asked questions