Traveling with your electric scooter can be a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore new destinations.
However, before you embark on your next adventure, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations regarding the transportation of electric scooters on planes.
When it comes to taking an electric scooter on a plane, the answer is not a straightforward yes or no. Different airlines have varying policies when it comes to this mode of transportation.
It’s important to check with your specific airline before your flight to ensure compliance and avoid any last-minute hassles.
The primary concern for airlines is the battery of the electric scooter, as it poses a potential fire risk. The watt-hour rating of the battery determines its compatibility with airline regulations.
Most airlines allow batteries with a watt-hour rating of up to 100Wh, while some may permit up to 160Wh with prior approval. However, batteries exceeding 160Wh are typically not allowed on planes.
In addition to battery restrictions, how the electric scooter is transported also depends on the airline and its policies. Some airlines may allow the scooter to be carried on as a carry-on item, while others may require it to be checked as baggage.
While the regulations surrounding electric scooters and plane travel may seem complex, it’s important to be aware of them to have a smooth and hassle-free journey.
In the following sections of this article, we will explore the specific policies of US and Canadian airlines, as well as alternative transportation options for your electric scooter.
Airline Policies for Electric Scooter Travel in the US
Various US airlines have specific policies regarding the transportation of electric scooters. Understanding these policies is crucial before planning your travel with an electric scooter. Here is an overview of the policies of some major US airlines:
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines prohibits the transport of riding equipment that contains lithium or lithium-ion batteries. This includes electric scooters.
United Airlines
United Airlines does not accept recreational self-propelled vehicles or devices designed to carry people or goods. Electric scooters are not allowed on United Airlines flights.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines does not permit the transportation of e-scooters or other electrically-powered rideables on their flights.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways allows electric scooters as a mobility aid but they must be checked in. If you plan to bring your electric scooter on a JetBlue flight, make sure to review their specific policies.
American Airlines
American Airlines restricts the carrying of recreational mobility devices that have lithium or lithium-ion batteries. This includes electric scooters.
It’s crucial to review the policies of each US airline before your flight to determine if you can bring your electric scooter on board.
Airline Policies for Electric Scooter Travel in Canada
Canadian airlines also have their own policies regarding the transportation of electric scooters. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these policies if you plan to bring your electric scooter on a flight.
Air Canada
Air Canada does not accept small lithium battery-powered vehicles unless they qualify as mobility aids. If your electric scooter meets the requirements, you may be permitted to bring it on board.
WestJet Airlines
WestJet Airlines allows mobility aids with specific watt-hour ratings. You will need to provide prior notification to the airline to ensure compliance with their policies.
Porter Airlines
Porter Airlines restricts the transportation of lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160Wh. It’s important to check the watt-hour rating of your scooter’s battery before planning your flight with Porter Airlines.
Flair Airlines
Flair Airlines does not allow electric scooters on board, except for mobility aids. If your electric scooter serves as a mobility aid, you may be permitted to bring it on your Flair Airlines flight.
Air Transat
Air Transat has banned the carriage of electric scooters due to safety concerns related to their batteries. Electric scooters cannot be transported on Air Transat flights.
| Airline | Policies |
|---|---|
| Air Canada | Does not accept small lithium battery-powered vehicles unless they qualify as mobility aids. |
| WestJet Airlines | Allows mobility aids with specific watt-hour ratings and requires prior notification. |
| Porter Airlines | Restricts the transportation of lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160Wh. |
| Flair Airlines | Does not allow electric scooters on board, except for mobility aids. |
| Air Transat | Bans the carriage of electric scooters due to safety concerns related to their batteries. |
Other Modes of Transportation for Electric Scooters
If you find yourself unable to bring your electric scooter on a plane, there are alternative transportation options available for you.
Some train companies in the US allow electric scooters on board, making it a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel.
However, it’s important to check with the specific train company beforehand to understand their policies and any restrictions that may apply to the transportation of electric scooters.
Another viable option is ferry travel. Many ferry services permit the transportation of electric scooters, providing you with an opportunity to enjoy scenic journeys while bringing along your preferred mode of transportation.
Nonetheless, it’s always advisable to double-check with the ferry service before boarding to ensure that they allow electric scooters and to be aware of any regulations or specific requirements they may have.
When opting for train or ferry travel with your electric scooter, it’s vital to recognize that each mode of transportation may have its own set of regulations and restrictions.
As a responsible traveler, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and comply with the requirements of each service, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey while respecting the rules and regulations of the chosen transportation providers.
