Can You Take a Hoverboard on an Airplane?

With the increasing popularity of hoverboards, many travelers wonder, “Can you take a hoverboard on an airplane?” In the below article, we will explore the regulations and restrictions surrounding hoverboard transportation, providing you with essential information for a smooth travel experience.

Over the last few years, hoverboards have gained popularity as a fun and convenient mode of personal transportation for kids and adults. Many of our team members here at Parentaldaily use hoverboards for short work + home chores commute – they say riding a hoverboard saves time and is refreshing. 

However, suppose you’re going to another city or country and planning to travel by air with your hoverboard.

In that case, it’s crucial to understand the rules and regulations set by airlines – not following airport or airline regulations can advertently delay or even cancel your trip plans. 

The below article aims to provide a comprehensive guide for hoverboard riders to the policies of various major airlines, including American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and United Airlines, regarding hoverboards and other available airlines in the USA or worldwide.

Can You Take a Hoverboard on an Airplane? 

The short answer to the above question is yes, but it’s essential to comply with each airline’s specific guidelines and regulations.

We recommend you read and comply with airline guidelines mainly due to safety concerns associated with hoverboard’s lithium-ion battery packs (which can cause a fire), which power most hoverboards.

In our research, after reading the safety guidelines of various airlines, we found that airlines have implemented strict rules to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members – so it is also the passenger’s responsibility to adhere to these policies – not adhering to these policies could lead to flight cancellations or even a hefty fine.

Regulations and Restrictions

Due to safety concerns regarding lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in hoverboards, airlines have imposed regulations regarding their transportation.

 These regulations primarily focus on the battery size and the hoverboard’s compliance with safety standards.

1. Battery Size and Watt-hour Limitations: In our research, while writing this article, our team found that most airlines have a general restriction on the size and capacity of lithium-ion batteries that can be transported on their flights – so avoid the biggest of hoverboards.
   
   These restrictions are typically based on the battery’s watt-hour (Wh) rating, which is also a standard practice by airlines.
   
   For example, Parvinder singh, Technology head at Parentaldaily, says that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States allows passengers to carry hoverboards with batteries up to 160 Wh in their carry-on baggage. However, batteries with capacities exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited from both carry-on and checked baggage.
   
2. Safety Standards and Certifications: Also, you must be aware that Airlines often require hoverboards to comply with specific safety standards and certifications.
   
   For instance, the hoverboard may need to be certified by an internationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). This certification ensures the hoverboard meets specific safety criteria and reduces fire risk or other battery-related incidents.

Checking with Your Airline

Given the variations in regulations among different airlines, we recommend hoverboard owners and enthusiasts check with their specific airline before taking a hoverboard on a flight because airlines have additional restrictions and guidelines. 

We advise passengers also to check the airline’s regulations regarding hoverboards and battery packs attached to them because they may have additional restrictions or guidelines beyond those mandated by regulatory bodies. Some airlines may prohibit the transportation of hoverboards altogether, while others may have specific procedures for checking them in as baggage.

It is advisable to contact your airline’s customer service or refer to their website to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding their hoverboard transportation policy. This will help you avoid any last-minute surprises or frustrations at the airport.

Tips for Safe Transportation

If you are allowed to bring your hoverboard on the airplane, here are some tips to ensure safe transportation:

1. Remove the Battery: To reduce the risk of fire or battery-related incidents, removing the battery from the hoverboard is generally recommended before packing it. Ensure that the battery is adequately protected to prevent damage during transit.
2. Pack it Securely: Pack your hoverboard with a sturdy and protective case. This will safeguard it against any potential damage during handling and transportation.
3. Inform the Airline: When checking in your hoverboard, make sure to inform the airline staff about the presence of a lithium-ion battery. They may have specific procedures or requirements for such items.
4. Follow Security Procedures: During the security screening process, you may be required to remove the battery from your hoverboard and place it separately in a designated container. Follow the instructions provided by the security personnel to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Hoverboards in Checked Luggage

As a passenger, you must know that most airlines prohibit hoverboards in checked luggage due to the potential fire hazard posed by the attached battery packs. 

The rules are strict because Lithium-ion batteries have been known to cause fires when damaged or improperly handled, which is a safety hazard. Therefore, it’s generally not allowed to transport hoverboards in the aircraft’s cargo hold.

American Airlines Hoverboard Policy

 American Airlines permits hoverboards to be brought onboard as carry-on items, provided they meet specific criteria. 

The hoverboard’s battery must be removable, and the passenger must carry it in the cabin. They insist passengers to hold them in their designated carry cases.

Additionally, the battery must be labeled with its watt-hour rating, and spare batteries are not allowed in checked or carry-on luggage. It is advisable to contact American Airlines directly or review their official guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

Is a Hoverboard Allowed on Qatar Airways? 

So according to our research, we found that they don’t allow hoverboards as carry-on or luggage items after going through reputable news blogs and official Qatar Airways websites. 

 However, it is essential to check with Qatar Airways or refer to their official website for the most recent and accurate guidelines.

United Airlines Hoverboard Policy

United Airlines also do not accept hoverboards as checked or carry-on baggage. You can check their official announcement. 

Additional Considerations

It is important to note that airline policies can change, and checking with the respective airline before your flight is crucial. 

Furthermore, even if an airline allows hoverboards, they may have specific requirements regarding battery specifications, watt-hour ratings, and packaging. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Conclusion

While it is generally possible to take a hoverboard on an airplane, it is essential to be aware of and adhere to the specific policies of each airline. American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and United Airlines allow hoverboards as carry-on items, provided certain conditions are met. 

However, hoverboards are typically not allowed in checked luggage due to safety concerns related to lithium-ion batteries. 

To ensure a stress-free journey, it is advisable to review the latest guidelines from your airline and follow any battery-related restrictions to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members.