The Rule That Matters Most
Spare lithium batteries should be carried in your cabin baggage, not in checked luggage.
If a lithium battery shorts and catches fire in the cabin, crew can respond immediately. In the cargo hold, a battery fire can go undetected. This rule comes from IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
Watt-Hour Limits
| Wh Rating | Airline Rule | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Under 100 Wh | Carry on without approval | DJI Mini (~20 Wh), Air 3 (~46 Wh), most consumer drones |
| 100–160 Wh | Carry on with airline approval | Some larger commercial batteries |
| Over 160 Wh | Not permitted on passenger aircraft | Large commercial / high-capacity LiPo packs |
How to find your Wh: Check the battery label, or calculate: Wh = Voltage (V) × Capacity (Ah). Example: 15.4V × 5.0Ah = 77 Wh. Most consumer drone batteries are well under 100 Wh.
Protecting Battery Terminals
Exposed terminals can short-circuit against metal objects. Methods to protect:
- • Keep in original packaging or padded battery bag
- • Electrical tape over exposed metal contacts
- • Dedicated LiPo bag with individual slots
- • Built-in terminal covers (most DJI batteries) — make sure they're in place
Air Canada
- • Spare batteries should be in carry-on
- • Under 100 Wh — no approval needed
- • 100–160 Wh — limited to 2 spare batteries, approval may be required
- • Over 160 Wh — not permitted
- • Do not charge batteries during the flight
Check Air Canada's dangerous goods page for current policy.
WestJet
- • Same IATA-based rules — spare batteries carry-on only
- • Under 100 Wh — permitted without pre-approval
- • 100–160 Wh — limited, check with WestJet before travel
- • Drone should be powered off completely in checked luggage
Check WestJet's restricted items page for current policy.
Packing Checklist
Battery ID & Travel Label Pack
From $16.99 CAD — Ships 1-2 business days
FAQ
Can I check my drone with the battery installed?
Generally yes, if completely powered off. Spare batteries must always go in carry-on. Many operators prefer to carry the drone on to avoid damage.
What if security asks about my drone batteries?
Know your Wh ratings. Under 100 Wh is standard allowance. A visible case label showing "Lithium Batteries — Carry On" demonstrates responsible packing.
Can I bring a LiPo safety bag on the plane?
Yes. LiPo safety bags are permitted and encouraged for extra protection.
How many batteries can I bring?
Under 100 Wh — no strict limit, use reasonable judgment. 100–160 Wh — typically 2 spare batteries per person.
Do these rules apply to Porter, Flair flights too?
Yes. All Canadian airlines follow IATA-based lithium battery rules. Always check your specific airline's current policy.
Regulations last verified: September 2026
Sources: IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations
Checked quarterly against the source list shown for this product.
This guide is for general information based on publicly available airline guidance and IATA regulations. Policies can change — always verify with your airline before travel. Compliance Lettering is not affiliated with Air Canada, WestJet, IATA, or Transport Canada.