Essential Information for Traveling With a Drone

Drones have made it easier than ever to view the world from above. These compact, remote-controlled aircraft, often equipped with cameras, have revolutionized photography, enabling people to capture breathtaking aerial images of landscapes, urban settings, events, and more.

As of February 2024, nearly 800,000 drones were registered in the United States according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Over half of these registrations are for recreational use, indicating that many individuals are enjoying flying their devices. However, before you embark on your travels, it's crucial to understand the regulations regarding bringing a drone on a plane and using it at your destination. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling with your drone.

Is it permissible to bring a drone on a plane?

Yes, you can travel with a drone either in your carry-on or checked baggage, depending on its size and the specific airline's policies. According to the FAA, drones with lithium batteries, fuel cells, and certain parachute systems may be considered hazardous materials, so it’s best to check with your airline if you're unsure. Note that spare lithium batteries are prohibited in checked luggage and must be carried in your carry-on.

Pay attention to your battery size.

You can take your drone and its batteries in your carry-on, but the batteries must meet specific size requirements. As outlined by the FAA, if your drone’s batteries are under 100 Wh (watt-hours), you can bring as many as you wish on board. For batteries ranging from 101 to 160 Wh, you're limited to two spare batteries per flight in your carry-on.

Familiarize yourself with local drone regulations before you travel.

There's nothing more frustrating than carefully packing your gear, boarding a flight, and reaching your destination only to be informed: "no flying allowed." Some locations require permits for recreational or professional drone use and may even confiscate your equipment if you lack the appropriate documentation.

Before you set off, make sure to check the local laws regarding flying and photography. For instance, the National Park Service prohibits the "launching, landing, or operation of unmanned aircraft" in most national parks unless specifically approved for purposes like research or rescue.

Internationally, regulations can be even stricter. In Morocco, for example, if you attempt to bring a drone into the country without a permit, it will likely be confiscated at the airport. The same is true for popular attractions and theme parks, including Disney World, which lists drones among its prohibited items.

FAA regulations also apply in the United States.

Regardless of where you fly within the U.S., you must adhere to the set of regulations established by the FAA. These rules govern drones that are registered for both recreational and commercial use.

The FAA specifies airspace restrictions that prevent all drones from flying near airports, over stadiums, during sporting events, and in emergency situations such as wildfires or hurricanes, along with other designated "No Drone Zones" unless explicit permission is obtained.

Whether you're flying commercially or for fun, it's essential to always have any required credentials or permits on hand in case authorities request them.

Can you still enjoy flying a drone while traveling?

Despite the potential challenges, the answer is a resounding yes! You can still enjoy flying and capture stunning images with a drone worldwide. In short: check your airline's drone policy, pack your batteries appropriately, and familiarize yourself with your destination's drone regulations to avoid issues (like the tourist who crashed their drone into a historic building in Rome). After that, get out there and take some amazing photos!