In today’s society, electric scooters have become one of the travel options for many people. However, many people are also facing a common question: Can electric scooters be brought on board? This question involves the policies of airlines, the regulations of the International Aviation Association, and the laws and regulations of various countries. In this article, we will explore this issue and provide you with some useful information and suggestions. Hope this article can help you better understand the relevant regulations about electric scooters in flight, making your travel more convenient and smooth.
Can electric scooters be brought on board?
Nowadays, electric scooters have become a popular mode of personal transportation due to their compact and lightweight design, convenience, portability, and eco-friendly structure. Most of these electric devices are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which can be conveniently folded for storage or travel. However, most airlines do not allow electric scooters to be brought on board, either as carry-on or checked luggage. Because most advanced electric scooters are equipped with lithium-ion batteries, which may suddenly malfunction, overheat, or explode inside the aircraft, causing damage to the aircraft or panic to passengers.
Only the following airlines allow e-scooters on board: Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, S7 Airlines, Lion Air, Air India, Vietnam Airlines.
All other airlines prohibit electric scooters from being carried on board. If the battery is over 160Wh, your hoverboard/bike/scooter will not be allowed, and in most cases, if the battery is over 100Wh, special permission is required. Almost no company will allow devices with batteries over 160Wh on board. In most cases, if your hoverboard/bike/scooter has a battery between 100 and 160 Wh, you will need permission from the airline to bring your hoverboard/bike/scooter on board.
Factors to consider when traveling with an electric scooter
Here are some factors to consider:
Size and weight
One reason it can be difficult to bring an electric scooter on board is its size and weight. Airlines have strict size and weight restrictions for luggage.
Some premium models come with a small, sturdy platform for the rider to stand on, and handlebars for efficient steering. These models are usually smaller and can be allowed on board. Other models are designed to be ridden standing up and can be folded and stored in a suitcase. Fortunately, these models can also be brought on board as long as they meet size and weight restrictions.
All airlines have weight restrictions, so your airline and ticket type will determine the maximum weight allotment. Typically, most airlines have a weight limit of 50-70 pounds (22.7-31.8 kg) per piece for checked luggage. The weight limit for carry-on luggage is about 15-20 pounds (6.8-9.1 kg), and the size of carry-on luggage is usually limited to a maximum of 45 inches (length + width + height)
Some airlines may have stricter size restrictions, it is best to check with the airline’s management for specific policies regarding carry-on luggage.
Battery type and capacity
If your electric scooter has a lithium-ion battery, you must remove the battery and properly packed in a box or hard-shell case. Some airlines may even require you to provide the necessary documentation to prove that the scooter is safe on the plane.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have established guidelines for the safe transportation of lithium-ion batteries by air.
In short, the minimum requirement for lithium-ion batteries in carry-on baggage on an airplane should be below 160Wh. If your scooter does not have a battery, it can be brought on board. However, the scooter must comply with the airline’s weight and size restrictions, and you should contact the relevant authorities to confirm.
Taking children’s electric scooters on board
Children’s electric scooters are small, low-powered electric vehicles. They are lightweight, portable, and can be checked on an airplane.
Unfortunately, most airlines do not allow passengers to bring children’s electric scooters as carry-on or checked baggage, regardless of their size, design, and weight, even if the battery is less than 160 watt-hours.
Therefore, it is always a good idea to contact the airline before traveling to find out whether lithium-ion battery devices are allowed. In addition, many airlines have policies that restrict traveling with lithium-ion battery devices.
If the airline you are traveling with allows you to carry a children’s electric scooter, you must disassemble it and pack it in a safety box, then check it as luggage, but it must meet the size and weight restrictions.
Carrying e-scooter on board as medical equipment
Electric scooters used as medical devices are usually classified as assistive devices. Therefore, most airlines treat such items as special baggage, not standard baggage.
As a standard procedure, you must keep in mind the FAA travel requirements for electric vehicles. The first requirement is the battery capacity. The FAA recommends that each battery of an electric scooter has a capacity of no more than 160Wh. But the main battery capacity of an electric mobility device can be up to 300Wh. As a passenger, you should check the battery type and the model of the scooter.
In addition, it is best to arrive at the airport in advance, so the airline staff has enough time to check the scooter and store it in the baggage hold as checked baggage.
Most airlines require you to remove the battery and store it in a safe before boarding. Likewise, you should bring all the documents to prove that you really rely on the scooter to get around and that it is safe to travel on the plane.
If your airline does not allow you to bring a specific scooter on board (for some reason) and you need an electric scooter to get around during your trip, you can rent one after arriving at your destination.
Most travel-related businesses today offer electric scooter rental services for travelers with limited mobility needs. Contact them and learn more about their rental policies.
All airlines have policies regarding powered assisted mobility devices and it is a good idea to contact them to find out all the circumstances.
Conclusion
Electric scooters are fun, easy to use, and perfect for leisure riding or commuting. However, in most cases, you can’t bring an electric scooter on an airplane unless it’s a medical device.