Drone accessories (batteries, propellers, controllers) → United States

Drone accessories including spare LiPo batteries must travel in carry-on luggage only; the drone itself must be registered with the FAA if operated in the US.

Details

CBP permits drone accessories (propellers, controllers, chargers) without restriction. However, FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 91) and TSA rules require lithium polymer (LiPo) spare batteries to be carried in carry-on baggage only — not in checked luggage — regardless of watt-hour rating due to fire risk. Batteries under 100Wh are permitted without airline approval; 100-160Wh requires airline approval; over 160Wh is generally prohibited. Drones operated in US airspace must be registered with the FAA if over 250g (FAA Part 107 / 49 USC 44809).

Quantity limit

LiPo batteries: maximum 2 spare batteries between 100-160Wh; no limit below 100Wh

Documentation required

• FAA drone registration (for drone operation in US airspace, not import)
• Airline approval for batteries 100-160Wh

Legal reference

FAA 14 CFR Part 107; 49 CFR Part 175 (PHMSA/FAA hazmat); TSA Dangerous Goods policy

Leaving with this item

Drone accessories (propellers, cases, controllers) may be exported from United States freely at personal-use quantities.

Practical advice

Pack all spare drone batteries in your carry-on in individual protective bags or tape over terminals. Remove batteries from the drone before checking it. Register the drone with FAA before flying it in US airspace.

Customs authority

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) · https://www.cbp.gov