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Traveling with electronic devices is increasingly common, but it also raises questions among passengers, especially when it comes to portable batteries or power banks. These accessories are essential for keeping cell phones, tablets, and other equipment charged during a trip, but their transport on airplanes is subject to strict safety measures.
The main reason is that lithium batteries, found in cell phones, laptops, cameras, smartwatches, and portable chargers, can pose a risk if they are damaged or used improperly. For this reason, both airlines and aviation authorities have specific rules to reduce any danger during the flight.
Why are lithium batteries regulated?
Lithium batteries can experience a phenomenon known as "thermal runaway," which causes an uncontrolled increase in temperature and, in extreme cases, can lead to smoke or fire. This problem can be caused by impact, manufacturing defects, overcharging, exposure to water, high temperatures, or incorrect packaging.
Due to these risks, crews are trained to respond quickly to any battery-related incident. If a device begins to heat up unusually, emits smoke, or shows signs of failure, passengers should inform the flight staff immediately.
Where should batteries be transported?
One of the most important rules is that external batteries must always travel in the aircraft cabin, inside your personal item.
This includes:
- Power banks o baterías externas.
- Cargadores portátiles.
- Baterías sueltas para celulares, cámaras o computadoras.
- Baterías de repuesto que no estén instaladas en un dispositivo.
Conversely, spare batteries are not allowed in checked baggage. If a carry-on bag must be sent to the cargo hold at the boarding gate, the passenger must first remove the batteries to take them into the cabin.
Aeroméxico limits the transport of portable batteries
According to Aeroméxico's current policy, passengers may only carry a maximum of two portable batteries per person.
In addition, these must meet the following conditions:
- Deben llevarse únicamente en el artículo personal.
- Cada batería debe tener una capacidad máxima de 100 Wh.
- Deben estar en buen estado físico.
- La capacidad debe estar visible.
- No se permiten en equipaje documentado.
- No pueden colocarse en el compartimento superior de la cabina.
- No se pueden recargar durante el vuelo.
They can only be used to charge devices when the aircraft is above 10,000 feet in altitude and in accordance with crew instructions.
The recommendation is to always keep the batteries within reach inside a backpack, purse, or small briefcase.
Differences between personal item, carry-on baggage, and checked baggage
Knowing the types of baggage helps avoid problems during boarding:
Personal item
It is a small backpack, bag, or briefcase that fits under the seat in front of the passenger.
Carry-on baggage
This is a small suitcase that travels with you inside the airplane cabin.
Checked baggage
It is the suitcase that is turned over at the airline counter and travels in the aircraft's cargo hold.
Lithium batteries and electronic devices should preferably be transported in your personal item or carry-on baggage.
Can you bring laptops and other electronic devices?
Yes. Passengers can travel with various electronic devices in the cabin, including:
- Laptops y computadoras portátiles.
- Teléfonos celulares.
- Tabletas electrónicas.
- Cámaras fotográficas.
- Consolas de videojuegos.
- Cargadores y cables.
Although some of these devices can be transported as checked baggage, it is best to carry them in the cabin to avoid damage, loss, or mishandling. In addition, during security screenings, it is common for laptops to be removed from the backpack for separate inspection.
Prohibited actions when traveling with power banks
To comply with safety standards, passengers must avoid the following practices:
- Documentar baterías de repuesto en la bodega del avión.
- Colocar los power banks en el compartimento superior.
- Transportar más de dos baterías portátiles cuando la política de la aerolínea así lo establezca.
- Utilizar baterías dañadas o con señales de desgaste.
- Recargar las baterías portátiles durante el vuelo.
- Dejar las baterías fuera de supervisión o lejos de su alcance.
- Reglas clave para no tener problemas en el aeropuerto
Before traveling, verify that your batteries are in good condition, that the capacity is visible, and that they are traveling in your personal item or carry-on baggage. It is also important to protect the devices to avoid accidental activation during the trip.
In summary, yes, it is possible to bring portable batteries, power banks, and electronic devices on the plane. However, it is essential to respect safety restrictions, especially those related to lithium batteries. Keeping them in the cabin, protected, and following airline instructions will allow for a safer and trouble-free trip.
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