Can You Take a Drone On a Plane Without Getting in Trouble?

Owning a drone is exciting. It adds adventure to any vacation, makes it possible to capture memorable moments perfectly and from the best angles.

And you get to have fun doing it. It gets more exhilarating when exploring a new country and recording new experiences with your drone.

But can you take a drone on a plane?

The short answer is yes — but you’ll want to know how to do it legally and safely to avoid fines, confiscation, or delays.

The experience is not always hassle-free. Flying drones for recreational purposes is more than creating the perfect flight path and getting the best wedding pictures or Instagram videos.

These are aircraft that could cause damage to property or invade privacy if used incorrectly. In the worst-case scenario, improper drone use can result in serious legal consequences.

These kinds of risks are the reasons behind the drone laws and restrictions in most countries.

The rules are designed to ensure you can enjoy flying your drone without conflicts involving individuals, businesses, aviation authorities, or wildlife protection agencies.

A drone flying on airspace could result in a collision that could be fatal to the airplane’s occupants.

The same kinds of restrictions are put in place by airlines with regard to traveling with drones.

Drones operate with lithium-ion batteries that are a potential flight threat.

Incidents involving lithium batteries onboard aircraft are reported every year.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), hundreds of lithium battery-related incidents have been documented since tracking began.

And the only solution is enforcing strict rules regarding traveling with electrical devices that use lithium-ion batteries.

If you plan on traveling with your drone, keep these three things in mind:

• Airline regulations regarding drones and batteries
• Drone laws in every country you will visit
• Personal measures to protect your drone and accessories

Can You Take a Drone on a Plane?

Some individuals are careless with drones, especially when traveling on airplanes.

It could lead to a malfunction caused by poor storage. And this could endanger other passengers’ safety.

It makes airlines quite strict about their safety requirements. 

But this does not mean you should leave your drone behind and miss out on taking perfect pictures and videos during your trip.

You can take your drone on a plane as long as the airline permits it and you transport it responsibly.

Comply with the rules the airline has regarding drones such as the size and weight that is allowed.

You must also confirm that drones are legal in your destination country — otherwise, your drone may be confiscated at customs.

Pay special attention to how you carry your spare batteries.

Battery Rules You Must Follow

Keep rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in your carry-on luggage.

The cabin’s stable temperature and pressure make it safer for lithium batteries.

If permitted by the airline, the battery installed in the drone may be placed in checked luggage — but it must be declared.

Cover spare battery terminals to prevent short-circuiting.

Store batteries in original packaging or protective cases.

You may carry multiple batteries as long as each battery does not exceed 100 watt-hours (Wh).

For batteries between 100–160 Wh, most airlines allow a maximum of two spare batteries, with airline approval.

Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited on passenger aircraft.

If watt-hours are not labeled, calculate them by multiplying volts by amp-hours.

For safety, discharge batteries to below 50% capacity before flying.

Ensure your batteries meet the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, confirming they are safe for air transport.

How to Travel with a Drone Safely and Compliantly?

Here are some guidelines for traveling with your drone safely.

1) Check Drone Laws in Your Destination Country

Most countries regulate drone use due to concerns about:

• Aircraft safety
• Noise pollution
• Property damage
• Privacy violations

Some countries prohibit foreign travelers from bringing drones entirely.

In the U.S., recreational drone pilots must register with the FAA and comply with Remote ID requirements.

Additional regulations may include:

• Maximum flight altitude
• Restricted or no-fly zones
• Minimum distance from airports and buildings
• Mandatory drone identification
• Permit requirements for foreign visitors
• Line-of-sight rules
• Night flight restrictions
• Training or certification requirements

.

Reliable resources include aviation authority websites and official drone safety platforms.

Approved apps such as B4UFLY or similar regional tools can alert you to airspace restrictions.

Use apps as a guide — but always verify regulations using official government sources.

2) Pack the Drone Correctly

If permitted, large drones should be checked in hardshell protective cases.

Remove and carry batteries, memory cards, and camera components in your carry-on.

Turn the drone off and secure switches with tape to prevent accidental activation.

If carrying your drone onboard, confirm carry-on size limits beforehand.

Use backpacks or cases designed for overhead compartments.

Pack the drone so it can be easily removed during security screening.

If you are going to be traveling over long distances when shooting your videos or taking photos, you may want to pack the drone in a soft backpack.

Bring basic repair tools and spare propellers in original packaging.

Fireproof battery bags are highly recommended for spare batteries.

3) Is the Cargo Bay Safe for Your Drone?

Carry-on transport is always safer and reduces theft or damage risk.

It also allows cabin crew to respond quickly if a battery issue occurs.

If your drone must be checked, use a discreet hardshell case.

Inform airline staff that your checked luggage contains a drone.

Never pack spare batteries in checked baggage.

Thermal runaway caused by lithium batteries can reach extreme temperatures and endanger the aircraft.

Avoid branded cases that clearly advertise expensive equipment.

If your luggage is lost, promptly file a claim and follow airline recovery procedures.

4) How to Go Through Airport Security with a Drone

Airports closely inspect electronic devices for safety reasons.

Contact your airline before booking to confirm drone and battery policies.

Follow all instructions to avoid delays at screening checkpoints.

Inform security staff that your bag contains a drone.

If asked to remove the drone or batteries, comply politely.

Place batteries in a separate bin for inspection when requested.

5) Passing Through Customs with a Drone

Personal-use drones usually don’t require declaration, but local laws vary.

Some countries require registration, permits, or temporary import documents.

Failure to comply can result in confiscation, fines, or legal penalties.

Your drone must be for personal use — not resale.

Some destinations require pre-approval or registration certificates before arrival.

Register your drone with customs before departure to avoid re-entry issues.

What Else Do You Need to Know to Travel With a Drone?

You may want to invest in a small-sized drone for travel purposes. It will be less cumbersome and more comfortable to carry around.

One that is less noisy means it will attract less attention.  

If, for some reason, you cannot fully comply with the laws regarding traveling with drones by air, find an alternative shipping method.

You can ship the drone with a courier company in advance.   

Besides being on the right side of the law, you need to use your drone responsibly to have fun without being a nuisance to the locals.

Respect people’s privacy. Avoid using it in beaches, apartments, and commercial buildings.

If you are looking get started with creating drone videos or photos, check out this post: Best Beginner Drone Photography And Video Tips

Avoid filming:

• Government buildings
• Military or police facilities
• Religious sites
• Crowded beaches or residential areas

Be mindful around wildlife and protected natural areas.

Drones are still new in the market, and using it in a public setting could attract a crowd.

Be nice. Let the locals watch and offer to take their photos.

Be careful around wildlife and nature by keeping your drone within your sight at all times.

You wouldn’t want to destroy endangered species or cause anxiety in wild animals.

Some national parks and tourist sites prohibit unmanned aircraft in the vicinity, comply. Failure to adhere to the rules could see you land in jail.

Your drone should not be a distraction to air traffic. Keep it under 400 feet above the ground and over 5 miles away from airports.

What else to be totally safe with your drone?

Being a new environment, fly the drone at a reasonable speed of about 87 knots and in open space areas.

Avoid high voltage wires, telecommunication base stations, and tall buildings.

It would be best if you never drove your drone under the influence of drugs or alcohol, spending time in jail in a foreign country is not something you would want to experience.

You can find a drone community of the country you are visiting. Connecting with other drone lovers provides an excellent platform to learn about the rules of the country and the best places to fly.

Check with your insurance company if the drone is covered for accidents and damages that occur when traveling.

If it’s covered, stick to all the state laws to ensure any claim you make is not declared void.

Traveling with a drone on a plane and using it in a new country requires proper planning and research.

You need to understand and observe every relevant law while in transit and during your visit.

Do your research before you take a drone on a plane

Before booking your flight, visit the airline’s website and check the requirements on traveling with drones.

Call customer support and clarify any questions you may have. Know what to expect during security screening.

Google will be your best friend. Take advantage of all the legitimate websites offering free advice.

Read about the laws governing drones used for recreational, educational, or commercial purposes in your country of interest.

Prepare for any fees and paperwork that you may require to get through customs.

It is always best to take your drone and all accessories in a high-quality carry-bag.

But if it cannot fit, pack the drone in a hardshell case in the cargo bay. And keep the valuables in a carry bag.

Be careful about carrying lithium-ion batteries. They should be covered for safety and put in a carry-bag. And if they exceed 100 watt-hours, do not exceed two spare batteries.   

Traveling with your drone will be easy if you stick to all the applicable laws and fly your drone responsibly. 

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a drone in 2026 is entirely possible — but it requires preparation, research, and responsibility.

Before booking your flight, review airline policies and destination drone laws.

Carry batteries correctly, pack your drone securely, and respect local regulations.

When done right, traveling with your drone can be smooth, safe, and incredibly rewarding.

Fly smart, fly legal, and enjoy capturing the world from above.

Written by Frank Stovall: