Skip to main content Skip to navigation within this section
aviation.govt.nz
Print

Drones

 
Carry-on bag
Checked-in luggage
Drones
 
 

Can I take this item on a plane?

Yes, you can take drones and other electronic devices on a plane, but with certain restrictions.

What are the restrictions?

  • Before you pack your drone, please make sure the device is turned off, not in sleep or hibernation modes.
  • The batteries in your drones cannot exceed the allowable watt hour limits:
    • If a lithium battery exceeds 160Wh (or 8g) it is prohibited from travelling on an aircraft
    • If a lithium battery exceeds 100Wh (or 2g) your airline must approve carriage
    • Each person is limited to taking two batteries (or power banks) that exceed 100wh (or 2g).
  • Your drone is one of a maximum of 15 portable electronic devices you can take with you. If you want to carry more, you must get approval from your airline.

Spare batteries and chargers

Drone batteries and chargers

  • Any spare drone batteries must be carried in your carry-on bag; they are prohibited from checked luggage.
  • Each spare battery must be individually protected by being in retail packaging, individual bag, a protective pouch, or with tape placed over exposed terminals.
  • Spare batteries cannot travel in battery chargers. Battery chargers do not protect the batteries and batteries in chargers are prone to overheating and catching fire.

Why is this item restricted?

Battery operated devices that are not turned off may activate, overheat and catch fire.

What happens if I have a restricted item in my carry-on bag?

You will be asked to relinquish all dangerous or prohibited items found in your carry-on luggage. If you refuse:

  • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
  • your airline will be advised of your refusal.

How does Aviation Security screen for restricted items?

AvSec X-ray bags going onto aircraft to ensure there is nothing dangerous in them.

  • Checked luggage - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating, the bag will be opened, searched and any dangerous good or prohibited item will be removed, with a bag search notification form left within the bag.
  • Carry-on - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating an AvSec Officer will request a bag search, and the bag will be opened and searched in your presence. If any dangerous goods or prohibited items are found, you will be asked to relinquish them.  If you refuse:
    • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
    • your airline will be advised of your refusal

What if my items are removed?

For more information, see Retrieving your removed items.

Print