Can You Take an Electric Scooter on a Plane Safely & Legally?

Traveling is always an adventure, and bringing your favorite electric scooter along can make it even more fun. 

But before you pack up your scooter and head to the airport, you might be wondering: Can you take an electric scooter on a plane? The answer is more complicated than it seems and depends on strict airline and international safety rules. 

This guide provides everything you need to know to avoid surprises at the airport.

Can You Really Take an Electric Scooter on a Plane?

Many travelers would love to bring their electric scooter on a plane for convenience and fun at their destination. However, airline and international safety rules make this very difficult for most people.

For almost all recreational electric scooters, the answer is no. Most airlines and international aviation authorities prohibit bringing recreational e-scooters on planes, mainly due to the size of their lithium-ion batteries. These batteries usually exceed airline safety limits, which are set to prevent fire risks on board.

Only very small scooters with batteries under 100 watt-hours (Wh)—or up to 160Wh with special airline approval, may be considered, and this is rare. These exceptions are typically reserved for mobility scooters used as medical devices. 

Even then, you must receive airline approval in advance, and security may still deny boarding if they have concerns.

Why Are Electric Scooters Restricted on Planes?

You might wonder why airlines are so strict about e-scooters. The main reason is safety, specifically the risk of lithium-ion battery fires.

The main concern is the lithium-ion battery, which can pose a fire risk if damaged or improperly handled. 

International regulations, enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), set strict limits on battery size:

• Up to 100Wh: Allowed in carry-on baggage without airline approval.
• 101Wh to 160Wh: May be allowed with airline approval, but almost always only for mobility aids (not recreational scooters).
• Above 160Wh: Not permitted on passenger aircraft.

Most consumer e-scooters have batteries far above 160Wh. For example, a common 36V, 10Ah battery equals 360Wh, which is more than double the maximum allowed.

Airline and TSA Rules: What You Must Check

Before you book your flight, it’s essential to understand both airline and TSA rules. These policies can vary by airline and country, and breaking them can result in being denied at check-in or security.

🛫Recreational E-Scooters

• Most airlines, including Delta, United, and American, ban recreational electric scooters on all flights regardless of battery size.
• Even if an airline allows them, the battery must be removable and within the allowed size limits.
• Batteries must always be carried in the cabin, never in checked baggage.

🛫 Mobility Scooters (Medical Use)

• Mobility scooters for passengers with disabilities are protected by law (such as the US Air Carrier Access Act) and airlines must accommodate them, but only if their batteries are under 100Wh (or up to 160Wh with written airline approval).
• The battery must be removable and labeled with its capacity.
• Advance notice and approval from the airline are required.

🛫 International Travel

• Many countries ban e-scooters or have strict import/customs rules.
• Always check the rules for your destination country before traveling.

🛫 At the Airport

• TSA and international security agencies have the final say. Even with airline approval, you may be denied at security if the battery is not clearly labeled or exceeds the allowed size.

What To Do If Your Scooter Isn’t Allowed on Plane

If you discover your scooter can’t fly with you, don’t panic. There are some practical alternatives to ensure you’re not left stranded without transportation.

• Ship your scooter to your destination using a courier or freight service.
• Rent a scooter at your destination.
• Store your scooter at the airport or with a friend until you return.

Packing and Preparation Tips

If you have a compliant mobility scooter and battery, careful packing and preparation are crucial for a smooth travel experience. Following these steps will help you avoid last-minute hassles at the airport.

1. Remove the battery and pack it in your carry-on bag.
2. Label the battery clearly with its watt-hour rating.
3. Notify your airline well in advance and bring any required paperwork.
4. Arrive early at the airport to allow extra time for security checks.

Conclusion

Bringing an electric scooter on a plane is very difficult for most travelers due to strict battery size and airline safety regulations. 

Only mobility scooters for medical use with small, removable batteries may be allowed, and you must have airline approval in advance. 

Always check your airline’s policies, know your battery size, and get everything in writing before you travel. If your scooter is not permitted, consider shipping it or renting one at your destination.

For more travel tips and information on compliant electric scooters, visit iScooter Global. Also, if you need a new scooter, shop electric scooters from iScooter Global and find the perfect ride for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to take a scooter on a plane?

The cost to take a scooter on a plane depends on the airline, the type of scooter, and whether it is considered a mobility device. Most airlines will not accept recreational e-scooters at all, regardless of fees, due to battery restrictions. Mobility scooters for medical use may be checked for free or for a standard baggage fee, provided the battery is within the allowed size. Always confirm with your airline ahead of time to avoid unexpected costs or denied boarding.

Can you take a scooter lithium battery on a plane?

You can only take a scooter lithium battery on a plane if it is under 100Wh, or up to 160Wh with special airline approval, and the battery must be removable and carried in your hand luggage. This is rare for most e-scooters, as their batteries are usually much larger. Even with approval, the battery must be clearly labeled with its capacity, and security has the final say. If your battery is too large or not labeled, you will not be allowed to fly with it.

What scooters are TSA approved?

The TSA does not approve any specific scooter brands or models. Instead, they enforce rules regarding battery size, removability, and labeling, in line with FAA and airline policies. Only scooters with removable batteries under the watt-hour limit (usually for medical mobility devices) are typically allowed. Always check your battery’s watt-hour rating and airline policy before traveling, and be prepared to show documentation at security.

Does a scooter count as a carry-on?

Most electric scooters do not count as carry-on items due to their size and battery restrictions. Only small, lightweight mobility scooters with compliant batteries may be allowed as carry-on or checked baggage, and only with prior airline approval. Recreational e-scooters are almost never permitted as carry-on or checked bags. Always check with your airline for their specific rules and requirements.