Cruising on your electric skateboard to view the sights of your city seems like a fantastic thing to do, but thinking about taking them on a plane while travelling to multiple countries is an issue of significant concern.

 

To bring it to your knowledge, many airline companies put these electric hoverboards on the hazardous list of things. Due to the past horror incidents, they’re starting to ban them even in checked baggage. Mostly, this has to do with batteries.

 

For those who don’t know, e-skateboards contain highly flammable lithium-ion batteries, and without the preventive measures, it could possibly be ….. BLAST!

 

The good news is that few airlines still allow you to bring them on board despite being unsafe. You just need to inform them before traveling and must adhere with both airline and airport security regulations and guidelines.

 

Generally speaking, electric skateboard with a battery capacity of less than 160 Wh, just like Nano 90.72Wh,  are often permissible to be carried on a plane.

 

Now, If you’re curious to find the answer to:  “What airline allows electric skateboards?”-  this guide will definitely help you. You’ll be able to understand why airlines are so strict on electric skateboards and how you can navigate the sometimes confusing rules.

 

Introduction

A. Brief Overview Of Electric Skateboards As A Popular Mode Of Transport

Electric skateboards are a recently popular mode of transport that is convenient, cost-effective, and appealing at the same time. The idea was first conceptualized as a means to travel within a short-distance locality and to address rush hour, but as soon as their demand spurred interest, their ‘off-road’ models became famous as thrill sports equipment.

 

Being an emerging powerhouse in urban transportation, electric skateboards, such as the Veymax electric skateboard and other reputable models, are proving their strength by providing efficient, enjoyable, and eco-friendly solutions to short-distance commuting problems.

 

You would be amazed by how this product is stable on the road at a fast speed. The wheelbase, length and flexibility features of this item provide ultimate stability.

B. The Challenge Of Taking Electric Skateboards On Planes

Moving your e-boards through a car, bus, or train is simply a matter of putting them in the trunk or suitcase. You don’t really have to worry too much about the size of your board, the batteries of your board, or anything like that.

 

But in the case of traveling with them from Australia to the U.S., it becomes a task.

 

The battery can be a reason to start a fire or even short circuit. In view of the nature of the battery and preserving the livelihood of passengers, airline companies impose certain regulations which are quite fair in this regard.

 

Another great challenge for Skateboarders and athletes travelers is the heft amount of fees for carrying sports equipment : they’re wide-ranging, complicated, and change with respect to different airlines.

 

Even on the same flight, different international routes may cost you hundreds of dollars or nothing.

 

One of the biggest reasons Veymax mini electric skateboard is unique in the electric skateboard category is its extremely compact dimensions and lightness.  You can just squeeze it into your backpack after you’re done with your ride.

 

What Different Airlines Say

A. General View On Airlines' Stance Towards Electric Skateboards

Every flight provider has a set of rules about taking an e-board with you; some are stricter, while others are accommodating.

 

For instance, Sydney’s Airport Customs doesn’t allow sports equipment as a carry-on, while Delta aircraft puts a straight no to electric hoverboards. So, prior research is all what you need.

 

Companies with less flexibility are more concerned about lithium-powered batteries, and they label them “pure hazardous material.” These are the same rechargeable batteries that are found in most of your electronic devices (such as laptops and phones).

 

While they do allow traditional skateboards, but for an electric board, they’re strictly reluctant.

 

American and United Airlines allow passengers to carry electric skateboards with less than 160 Wh. This means that if your skateboard has a battery capacity ranging between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you’re safe to carry it with you on the plane.

 

So actually no worries about taking your Veymax electric short board on a plane.

 

However, the airline still has the right to say no. You might have to call them to get permission before you fly. For skateboards with Lithium-ion batteries, passengers are required to have an Underwriters' Laboratories (UL) certification. The battery design must reach a test standard called "UN38.3". The best part is that many batteries in the market have this certification.

B. Examples Of Airlines That Allow Electric Skateboards, With Basic Conditions

Some airlines don't allow electric skateboards or boards of any kind, whereas others are lenient; they will enable you to take them onboard – as long as they are packed separately.

 

Take a look at three major airlines with their most rigorous battery policies:

 

 

1. United Airlines:This domestic airline company allows you to take a skateboard onto a plane as carry-on baggage. The official words from their website read: "We'll accept only non-powered skateboards as checked bags or carry-on bags with a Battery capacity of less than 100 Watt hours if it's a personal item—no more than two loose lithium-ion batteries per person, totaling 160 Watts, allowed in checked bags. For all those loose lithium batteries in carry-on bags, you must individually protect each to prevent short-circuiting. You can put each battery in original retail packaging, individual plastic bags, or protective pouches."

 

2. American Airlines:American Airlines initially gets onto your nerves to allow you with skateboards! Officially, they're giving the cold shoulder to skateboards as carry-ons. Their sports equipment policy gets you to roll with your skateboard with a Battery capacity of < 100 Wh. Standard charges apply for skateboards weighing up to 50 lbs and weighing 126 linear inches.

 

3. Air Canada:When planning to jet off with your sports gear through Air Canada, you will get a chill policy for your ride. You can have your bag filled with all your boarding gear. But remember, Keep it under 158 cm (62 in) in total dimensions and under a weight of 23 kg (50 lb).

 

C. Tips For Checking With Airlines Before Your Trip

Knowing airline policies and familiarizing yourself with the rules of traveling with a electric skateboard is half the battle. The best way to do is to contact the airline agent. Airline operators provide specific sizing and weight figures for compliance. So, carefully check if your skateboard’s numbers fit the airline’s guide.

 

Notify them through a call or drop an email so that you won’t face any hassle during the boarding. You can even read their luggage restrictions details on their website.

 

When it comes to carrying your electric boards, its basically the size of the lithium battery that holds the true attention. Most companies, as regulated by the FAA, allow batteries watt-hours of 160 or less and the maximum length of carry-on luggage to be no more than 22″ x 14″ x 9″.

 

You can match the limitations with the details mentioned on the label of your batteries. If not, you can approximate the value this by multiplying voltage by amp-hours, which should also be indicated in your battery's label.

 

Why Airlines Care About Electric Skateboards

A. Quick Explanation Of Concerns Around Lithium Batteries In Air Travel

When it comes to motorized boards, you’ll find many air authorities stopping you at security or being less flexible in allowing you to take them along. The main reason why most electric devices get confiscated or subject to strict scrutiny is the culprit: lithium batteries.

 

Know that lithium batteries are chemically complex can unexpectedly re-ignite and enter an uncontrollable, self-heating state. This can result in explosions, the release of gas, or even cause fire.

 

Many terrible incidents have proven that these batteries can trigger short-circuiting or exploding mid-flight and cause panic among passengers or damage the plane.

 

This usually happens because of defective or damaged batteries but sometimes can also occur under various other circumstances.

 

So, it’s always advisable to check out guidelines on how to pack lithium battery-powered devices and the limits on spare batteries.

B. Basic Rules About Lithium Batteries On Planes

If you’re relying on your electric skateboard for exploring foreign countries, you need to keep in mind that airlines, in conjunction with federal agencies,  have some pretty strict rules about what kind of luggage you can and can’t take on planes.

 

Note that every airline will respond differently to your request to take an electric skateboard on the plane, so it’s important to always check the specific airline’s regulations before flying.

 

In general, passengers carrying an electric skateboard with a 100Wh Lithium-ion is permissible as check-in baggage due to safety concerns. In contrast, batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval from authorities before they can board an aircraft.

 

According to the FAA, the basic rule is to dismantle batteries, trucks, and wheels before packing, and it should be kept in your carry-on.  It can be a skateboard bag, duffle bag, or even a backpack.

 

The safest place for them is in the aircraft cabin so that cabin crew can quickly respond to any incidents. Remember that if your carry-on is checked at the gate or planeside, remove your devices and bring them into the cabin.

 

Some Domestic flights tend to be more lenient; in that case, make sure to get to the gate early to be able to store your board in the overhead bin.

Getting Your Electric Skateboard Ready for Flight

A. Simple Steps To Prepare Your Skateboard

Getting your skateboard ready for flight means finding an opportunity to explore new skate spots and parks, but it can be nerve-wracking when thinking about packing them. However, With a few simple steps, you can ensure that your skateboard arrives at your destination safely and ready to shred.

1. Handling the battery

The problematic component of any electric skateboard is the battery, so apparently, a lot of airline companies set rules surrounding the carrying of batteries mainly because they tend to burst up into flames in rare scenarios.

 

Therefore, before you try to consider traveling with your electric skateboard, you need to ensure that the battery is compact, detachable, and less than 160WH.

 

Usually, a battery rated under 100Wh is a minimum threshold that is pretty much acceptable everywhere.

 

Unfortunately, if your board has none of these, things would get you in trouble.

 

Luckily, if you’re under the safe zone and the battery is less than 160Wh, detach it according to the manufacturer's instructions and pack it separately in your check-in luggage. Be mindful that the battery is within the permitted size and capacity limits the airline sets.

2. Securing The Skateboard

Now that you’ve prepared to handle your battery, it’s time to pack each disassembled part of your electric skateboard in a sturdy and protective bag or case.

 

Place the wrapped decks, the bagged battery, trucks, and wheels inside a travel bag. Don’t forget to pack any other necessary skate gear, such as shoes or pads, around the skateboard for added protection.

 

This will also make your skateboard easier to pack and transport.  You can even use additional padding, such as bubble wrap, to safeguard it further.

3. Some Documents you might need

Last but not least, Keeping all relevant documentation with you during the flight is always a good idea; the list may include the owner's manual, warranty information, and proof of purchase. This will help you in case any issues arise during security checks.

B. Additional Tips For Carrying Your Electric Skateboard Safely

If your airline gives you the green signal and you’re allowed to travel with your electric skateboard, make sure you follow these tips as an additional bonus.

 

 

● Always check your airline’s policies before you make it to the airport. Some airlines require you to check in with skateboards as oversized baggage, while others may allow you to carry it on board. Knowing the policies ahead of time can save you from any unexpected fees or delays. ● Protect the battery terminals to prevent short circuits. ● If your battery capacity is exceeding the 160wh limits, one way is to disconnect your battery and leave it at home, take your empty e-board on the plane, and sort yourself out with a new battery when you get to your destination. ● Sometimes, a battery over 160Wh requires you to contact a specialist freighting company responsible for carting hazardous materials.

 

Conclusion

Electric cars, buses, trains, and now the electric skateboards, electrification in most forms of transportation is happening to benefit people worldwide.

 

Cruising on your boards around the city is no less than great, but when carrying them on the plane, their mobility restricts you.  

 

The key to winning the travel game, especially regarding air travel, is choosing airlines that support their transit. Airlines such as American Airlines, Air Canada, and United Airlines give skateboarders the leverage to carry them within the specified criteria.

 

Their strict norms with motorized skateboards are linked to the lithium batteries that may ignite hazardous incidents in rare scenarios.

 

So, reading on several factors, including the airline’s policies, the specific type of electric skateboard, and the destination country's regulations, there shouldn’t be that big of a hassle.

 

Remember that the airline's rules vary from time to time, so don’t forget to be updated with newer policies and procedures. Have a happy journey!