Lithium Battery Regulations for Medical Devices: Complete FAA & TSA Guide 2025

Lithium batteries power life-sustaining medical devices for millions of travelers, but navigating the complex web of FAA, TSA, and airline regulations can feel overwhelming. Understanding these rules isn't just about compliance—it's about ensuring your medical equipment functions reliably throughout your journey while maintaining aviation safety.

This comprehensive guide demystifies lithium battery regulations for medical device travelers, providing clear, actionable information about watt-hour limits, packing requirements, airline policies, and international travel considerations.

Why Lithium Battery Regulations Exist

Aviation safety drives every battery regulation. Lithium batteries, while incredibly efficient for powering medical devices, present fire risks in aircraft cargo holds due to their energy density and potential for thermal runaway—a chain reaction that can cause batteries to overheat, ignite, or explode.

The Science Behind the Rules

Lithium-ion batteries generate heat during charging and discharging. In rare cases, manufacturing defects, physical damage, or short circuits can trigger thermal runaway:

1. Initial failure - Defect or damage causes cell to overheat
2. Temperature rise - Internal chemical reactions accelerate
3. Chain reaction - Adjacent cells begin overheating
4. Fire or explosion - Battery ruptures, releasing flammable gases

Real-World Incidents That Shaped Current Regulations:

• 2010: UPS Flight 6 cargo fire caused by lithium batteries, leading to stricter cargo restrictions
• 2016: Samsung Galaxy Note 7 battery fires resulted in complete flight bans
• 2019-2024: Over 400 incidents involving lithium battery fires or overheating on aircraft

These incidents prompted the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), FAA, and airlines to implement strict battery carriage rules—particularly for checked baggage where fires cannot be quickly detected or extinguished.

Key Safety Principle: Passengers can monitor and respond to battery issues in the cabin, but fires in checked baggage pose extreme danger. This fundamental reality shapes all lithium battery regulations.

Understanding Watt-Hours: The Universal Measurement

Watt-hours (Wh) determine what you can bring on a plane. Every airline, every country, every regulation references watt-hours as the standard measurement for battery capacity.

What Are Watt-Hours?

Watt-hours measure total energy capacity—how much power a battery can deliver over time.

Formula:

Watt-Hours (Wh) = Voltage (V) × Amp-Hours (Ah)

Example Calculation:

• Battery voltage: 14.4V
• Battery capacity: 6.8Ah
• Watt-hours: 14.4V × 6.8Ah = 97.92 Wh

Why Not Milliamp-Hours (mAh)?

Many batteries list capacity in milliamp-hours (mAh) instead of amp-hours (Ah). Convert mAh to Ah by dividing by 1,000:

Example:

• Battery capacity: 6,800 mAh
• Convert to Ah: 6,800 ÷ 1,000 = 6.8 Ah
• Voltage: 14.4V
• Watt-hours: 14.4V × 6.8Ah = 97.92 Wh

Finding Battery Specifications

Where to Find Watt-Hour Ratings:

1. Battery label - Most medical device batteries display Wh rating directly
2. User manual - Technical specifications section
3. Manufacturer website - Product specifications or support pages
4. Device packaging - Original box often includes battery information
5. Calculate manually - Use voltage and amp-hour ratings if Wh not listed

Pro Tip: Take a photo of battery specifications before traveling. If questioned by TSA or airline staff, you'll have immediate proof of compliance.

FAA Lithium Battery Regulations for Medical Devices

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) establishes baseline rules for U.S. air travel, which most international carriers adopt with variations.

The Three-Tier System

FAA regulations divide lithium batteries into three categories based on watt-hour capacity:

Tier 1: Under 100 Wh (Unrestricted)

Allowed: Unlimited quantity in carry-on luggage Checked baggage: Generally prohibited unless installed in medical device

Typical Medical Devices in This Category:

• Most CPAP/BiPAP batteries (40-80 Wh)
• Small portable oxygen concentrator batteries (60-90 Wh)
• Insulin pump batteries (under 20 Wh)
• Portable nebulizer batteries (30-60 Wh)
• Wheelchair controller batteries (varies)

No special permission required. These batteries travel as standard medical equipment.

Tier 2: 100-160 Wh (Restricted)

Allowed: Maximum 2 spare batteries in carry-on with airline approval Checked baggage: Prohibited

Typical Medical Devices in This Category:

• Large portable oxygen concentrator batteries (100-150 Wh)
• Extended-life CPAP batteries (100-130 Wh)
• Power wheelchairs and scooters (100-160 Wh per battery)

Advance airline approval required. Contact airline 48-72 hours before travel.

Tier 3: Over 160 Wh (Dangerous Goods)

Allowed: Only with airline dangerous goods approval (rare for passengers) Checked baggage: Prohibited

Typical Medical Devices in This Category:

• Heavy-duty power wheelchairs (often 200-300 Wh)
• Specialized medical transport equipment
• High-capacity portable ventilators

Special handling required. These batteries require dangerous goods documentation and may be prohibited on some flights.

Spare Battery Regulations

"Spare battery" means any battery not installed in a device.

FAA Spare Battery Rules:

• Under 100 Wh: Unlimited quantity, carry-on only
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 batteries, carry-on only, airline approval required
• Over 160 Wh: Prohibited for most passengers

Packing Requirements for Spare Batteries:

1. Terminal protection - Tape over battery terminals or keep batteries in original packaging
2. Physical protection - Prevent short circuits by keeping batteries separated
3. Damage prevention - Protect from crushing or puncturing
4. Labeling - Clearly mark medical device batteries to expedite TSA screening

Pro Tip: Use individual plastic bags or battery cases. TSA officers appreciate organized, clearly labeled batteries.

Installed vs. Spare Battery: Critical Distinction

Installed batteries (inside medical device):

• Can travel in carry-on or checked baggage (check specific airline policy)
• No quantity restrictions
• No special packaging requirements

Spare batteries (loose or in separate packaging):

• MUST travel in carry-on only
• Subject to quantity limits based on watt-hours
• Require terminal protection

Example: If you travel with a portable oxygen concentrator:

• ✅ One battery installed in POC → No restrictions
• ✅ Two spare batteries under 100 Wh → Carry-on only, terminal protection required
• ❌ Spare batteries in checked baggage → Prohibited, will be removed

TSA Battery Screening Procedures

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) enforces FAA battery regulations at security checkpoints.

What TSA Checks

During screening, TSA verifies:

1. Battery capacity - Watt-hour rating compliance
2. Proper packing - Spare batteries in carry-on, terminals protected
3. Device type - Medical necessity and FAA approval (for POCs)
4. Battery condition - No visible damage, swelling, or corrosion

Documentation Requirements

TSA doesn't legally require battery documentation, but carrying it prevents delays:

Recommended Documents:

• Battery specification sheet showing watt-hour rating
• Manufacturer's information confirming FAA compliance
• Prescription or medical necessity letter (especially for POCs)
• Photos of battery labels showing Wh ratings

Real-World Experience from TSA Officer Jennifer K. (12 years): "When travelers have their battery specs ready, screening takes 2-3 minutes. When we have to look up information or verify compliance, it can take 15-20 minutes. Documentation is the traveler's best friend."

Damaged Battery Protocols

TSA will NOT allow damaged lithium batteries through security:

Grounds for rejection:

• Visible swelling or bulging
• Cracked or damaged casing
• Corrosion or leaking fluid
• Unusual heat or odor
• Dents or punctures

If your battery is rejected:

1. Don't argue - Safety regulations are non-negotiable
2. Check device with installed battery - Sometimes allowed if battery isn't spare
3. Ship battery separately - Use ground shipping (never air)
4. Purchase replacement at destination - Many medical supply companies offer emergency service

Airline-Specific Battery Policies

While FAA establishes baseline rules, individual airlines add their own requirements—sometimes more restrictive than FAA minimums.

Major U.S. Airline Policies

American Airlines

Battery Limits:

• Under 100 Wh: Unlimited quantity
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 spare batteries with advance approval

Medical Device Policy:

• POCs: FAA-approved models only, advance notification required
• CPAPs: No advance notification needed for standard batteries
• Wheelchairs: Battery type determines handling (non-spillable vs. spillable)

Advance Notification: 48 hours recommended for batteries over 100 Wh

Contact: Special Assistance Desk 800-237-7976

Delta Air Lines

Battery Limits:

• Under 100 Wh: No quantity limit
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 spare batteries, advance approval required

Medical Device Policy:

• POCs: Must be on FAA-approved list, 48-hour advance notification
• CPAPs: No restrictions for batteries under 100 Wh
• Mobility devices: Detailed battery documentation required

Advance Notification: 48 hours for all lithium batteries over 100 Wh

Contact: Disability Assistance Line 404-209-3434

United Airlines

Battery Limits:

• Under 100 Wh: Unlimited
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 batteries, advance approval mandatory

Medical Device Policy:

• POCs: FAA-approved list only, must reserve accommodations
• CPAPs: Allowed without advance notice if under 100 Wh
• Scooters/wheelchairs: Battery watt-hours must be documented

Advance Notification: 48 hours minimum for batteries 100-160 Wh

Contact: Accessibility Desk 800-228-2744

Southwest Airlines

Battery Limits:

• Under 100 Wh: No restrictions
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 spare batteries, advance coordination required

Medical Device Policy:

• POCs: FAA-approved models, advance notification preferred but not required
• CPAPs: No advance notification needed
• Mobility aids: Specific battery types require advance arrangements

Advance Notification: Recommended 48 hours for batteries over 100 Wh

Contact: Customer Service 800-I-FLY-SWA

International Airline Variations

Many international carriers impose stricter limits:

Common International Restrictions:

• Lower watt-hour thresholds (some limit spare batteries to 80 Wh)
• Mandatory advance notification for all medical devices with lithium batteries
• Additional documentation requirements (translated prescriptions, medical certificates)
• Battery quantity limits even under 100 Wh (some airlines restrict to 4-6 batteries)

Pro Tip: Always verify battery policies with your specific airline and any code-share partners 72+ hours before international travel.

Power Wheelchair and Scooter Battery Regulations

Mobility devices present unique challenges due to large battery capacities and physical size.

Battery Type Classifications

Non-Spillable Batteries (Dry Cell, Gel Cell, Absorbed Glass Mat)

Characteristics:

• Sealed construction prevents leaking
• Can be transported in any position
• Most common in modern wheelchairs

Travel Requirements:

• Terminals must be insulated to prevent short circuits
• Battery must be securely attached to wheelchair
• Watt-hour rating documented
• Can remain installed during flight (device usually stored in cargo)

Airlines generally prefer non-spillable batteries due to lower risk.

Spillable Batteries (Wet Cell, Flooded Lead Acid)

Characteristics:

• Contain liquid electrolyte
• Can leak if tipped or damaged
• Older wheelchair models

Travel Requirements:

• Must be removed from wheelchair and packaged in airline-approved containers
• Strong, leak-proof packaging required
• Upright orientation mandatory
• Special handling by airline cargo personnel
• Many airlines restrict or prohibit spillable batteries over 300 Wh

Recommendation: If your wheelchair uses spillable batteries, consider upgrading to non-spillable type for easier travel.

Documentation for Mobility Devices

Airlines require detailed battery information for wheelchairs and scooters:

Essential Documents:

1. Battery type - Spillable vs. non-spillable
2. Watt-hour rating - Calculate or obtain from manufacturer
3. Voltage and amp-hours - If Wh not available
4. Number of batteries - Some devices use multiple batteries
5. Installation status - Installed vs. spare

Create a "Mobility Device Travel Card":

• Laminate battery specifications
• Attach to wheelchair in visible location
• Include emergency contact information
• Carry duplicate copies

This single step eliminates 90% of battery-related delays at check-in.

Common Medical Device Battery Capacities

Understanding typical battery capacities helps you plan and verify compliance.

Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Inogen One G5:

• Single battery: 69 Wh (under Tier 1 limit)
• Double battery: 98 Wh (under Tier 1 limit)

Philips SimplyGo Mini:

• Standard battery: 73 Wh (under Tier 1 limit)
• Extended battery: 98 Wh (under Tier 1 limit)

Inogen One G3:

• Single battery: 88 Wh (under Tier 1 limit)
• Double battery: 97 Wh (under Tier 1 limit)

Oxlife Independence:

• Standard battery: 144 Wh (Tier 2 - requires airline approval)

Most POC batteries fall under 100 Wh, allowing unlimited spare batteries in carry-on.

CPAP and BiPAP Machines

ResMed AirSense 10:

• Built-in power supply only (no battery)
• Optional battery packs: 60-90 Wh (Tier 1)

Philips DreamStation Go:

• Standard battery: 88 Wh (Tier 1)
• Extended battery: 176 Wh (Tier 3 - restricted)

Transcend CPAP:

• Standard battery: 65 Wh (Tier 1)
• Multi-night battery: 130 Wh (Tier 2 - requires approval)

Z2 Auto CPAP:

• Standard battery: 77 Wh (Tier 1)
• Extended battery: 154 Wh (Tier 2 - requires approval)

Key Takeaway: Standard CPAP batteries rarely exceed 100 Wh, but extended/multi-night batteries may require airline approval.

Insulin Pumps and CGMs

Most diabetes devices use very small batteries:

• Insulin pumps: 5-20 Wh (well below any restrictions)
• CGM transmitters: 1-3 Wh (insignificant for regulation purposes)

These devices never require special permission due to extremely low battery capacity.

Portable Nebulizers

Typical capacity: 30-80 Wh (Tier 1)

Examples:

• Omron MicroAir: 45 Wh
• PARI Trek S: 72 Wh
• Philips InnoSpire Go: 85 Wh

No special permissions needed for standard nebulizer batteries.

Safe Battery Packing: Step-by-Step Guide

Proper packing prevents short circuits, damage, and TSA delays.

Materials You Need

Essential supplies:

• Clear plastic zip-lock bags (quart or gallon size)
• Electrical tape or battery terminal covers
• Bubble wrap or foam padding
• Battery storage cases (optional but recommended)
• Labels or permanent marker

Packing Procedure

Step 1: Terminal Protection

Goal: Prevent short circuits caused by terminals contacting metal or other batteries

Methods:

• Apply electrical tape over battery terminals
• Use manufacturer-provided terminal caps
• Keep batteries in original retail packaging (ideal)
• Place batteries in individual plastic bags

Never pack multiple unprotected batteries together.

Step 2: Physical Protection

Goal: Prevent crushing, puncturing, or impact damage

Methods:

• Wrap batteries in bubble wrap or soft clothing
• Use rigid battery cases when possible
• Avoid placing heavy items on top of batteries in carry-on
• Position batteries in center of bag, surrounded by soft items

Step 3: Organization and Labeling

Goal: Expedite TSA screening and identify medical necessity

Methods:

• Place all batteries in one or two clear plastic bags
• Label bags "Medical Device Batteries - [Device Name]"
• Keep battery specifications sheet with batteries
• Position batteries for easy access during screening

Step 4: Accessibility

Goal: Allow quick removal during TSA screening without unpacking entire bag

Methods:

• Pack batteries in top or front pocket of carry-on
• Avoid burying batteries under clothing or other items
• Have batteries ready to remove before reaching checkpoint

Pro Tip: TSA officers appreciate when batteries are organized, protected, and easily accessible. This single factor reduces screening time by 5-10 minutes.

International Travel Battery Regulations

Battery rules vary significantly by country and airline. What's allowed on U.S. carriers may be restricted internationally.

IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) publishes dangerous goods regulations that many countries adopt:

Standard IATA Limits:

• Under 100 Wh: Allowed in carry-on without restriction
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 spare batteries with airline approval
• Over 160 Wh: Prohibited for passenger travel (dangerous goods procedures required)

However, individual countries and airlines may impose stricter rules.

Regional Variations

European Union

Generally follows IATA standards:

• Under 100 Wh: Unrestricted
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 batteries, advance airline notification
• Medical devices: Similar protections to U.S. regulations

Key Differences:

• Some EU airlines require translated medical documentation
• Advance notification periods may be longer (72-96 hours)
• Airport security may be less familiar with U.S. medical devices

United Kingdom

Post-Brexit regulations align with EU standards:

• Lithium battery limits identical to EU
• Medical device documentation strongly recommended
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) oversees regulations

Special Considerations:

• Bring prescription in English or with certified translation
• Some older airports have different screening procedures

Asia-Pacific Region

Significant variations by country:

Japan:

• Strict compliance with IATA limits
• Medical device documentation highly valued
• English prescriptions generally accepted

China:

• More restrictive than IATA standards
• Some airports limit total batteries to 8 per passenger (regardless of Wh)
• Advance notification mandatory for all medical devices

Australia:

• Follows IATA standards closely
• Extensive medical device documentation required
• Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) oversees regulations

Singapore:

• IATA-compliant
• Extremely efficient security screening
• English documentation preferred

Middle East

Conservative battery policies:

United Arab Emirates:

• IATA limits enforced
• Medical documentation required for all devices with lithium batteries
• Advance airline notification (72+ hours) recommended

Saudi Arabia:

• Follows IATA but with additional documentation requirements
• Translated prescriptions may be required
• Some restrictions on specific device types

Documentation for International Travel

Essential documents for crossing borders with medical device batteries:

1. Prescription or medical necessity letter - Translated to destination country's language
2. Battery specifications - Watt-hour ratings, quantity, device association
3. Device user manual - English and local language if possible
4. FAA compliance certification - For POCs
5. Customs declaration forms - Declare medical devices to prevent complications
6. Travel insurance documentation - Coverage for medical device loss or damage

Pro Tip: Contact your destination country's embassy or consulate 2-4 weeks before travel to verify current medical device regulations.

Battery Safety During Flight

Your responsibilities don't end once you board the aircraft.

In-Flight Battery Monitoring

Monitor batteries for signs of malfunction:

Warning Signs:

• Unusual heat from device or spare batteries
• Swelling or changes in battery shape
• Odors (metallic, acrid, or chemical smells)
• Smoke or visible vapor
• Device malfunctioning or powering off unexpectedly

If you notice any of these signs:

1. Immediately notify flight attendant - Don't wait or attempt to handle situation yourself
2. Power off device - If safe to disconnect
3. Isolate battery - If battery is removable and safe to remove
4. Follow crew instructions - Flight attendants are trained for battery emergencies

Never attempt to:

• Throw battery in trash
• Place battery in overhead bin or under seat (unless instructed)
• Continue using malfunctioning device
• Ignore warning signs

Battery Charging on Aircraft

Most airlines prohibit charging lithium batteries during flight due to fire risk.

Exceptions:

• Medical devices in active use (insulin pumps, POCs)
• Devices with manufacturer-installed, non-removable batteries under 100 Wh
• Airlines with specific medical device charging programs (rare)

Always ask flight attendant before charging medical device batteries.

Airline Battery Emergency Procedures

Flight crews undergo extensive training for lithium battery fires—one of aviation's most serious in-flight emergencies.

What Happens During a Battery Fire

Crew response protocol:

1. Immediate identification - Locate source of smoke, heat, or odor
2. Fire containment - Use approved fire suppression equipment
3. Cooling - Submerge battery in water or non-alcoholic liquid (standard procedure)
4. Monitoring - Watch for re-ignition (batteries can reignite after suppression)
5. Diversion decision - Captain evaluates need for emergency landing

Aircraft carry specialized equipment:

• Fire containment bags (battery burn bags)
• Fire extinguishers rated for electrical fires
• Protective equipment for crew

Why this matters: Your proactive monitoring and immediate reporting can prevent small battery malfunctions from becoming major emergencies.

Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues

Problem: Battery Wh Rating Not Listed

Solution:

1. Calculate manually using voltage × amp-hours
2. Contact manufacturer customer service
3. Check online product specifications
4. Find user manual PDF online
5. Use manufacturer's live chat support

Most manufacturers respond within 24-48 hours to battery specification inquiries.

Problem: Airline Denies Boarding Due to Battery

Solution:

1. Stay calm - Anger doesn't change regulations
2. Show documentation - Present battery specs and FAA compliance proof
3. Request supervisor - Gate agents may not be familiar with medical device exceptions
4. Reference airline's own policy - Print policy from airline website before travel
5. Contact airline's disability assistance - They have authority to override standard procedures

Real scenario from wheelchair user David M.: "Gate agent initially refused my wheelchair battery claiming it exceeded limits. I calmly showed printed airline policy stating non-spillable batteries under 300 Wh are allowed. Supervisor arrived, confirmed I was correct, and I boarded without further issues. Documentation saved my trip."

Problem: TSA Confiscates Battery

Solution:

1. Ask why - Understand specific violation (over Wh limit, damage, improper packing)
2. Request supervisor - TSA officers may misunderstand medical device exceptions
3. Show medical necessity - Prescription and documentation
4. Explore alternatives - Can battery be checked if installed in device?
5. File complaint - If you believe confiscation was improper

If battery is truly non-compliant, you cannot bring it on the aircraft. Plan alternatives:

• Ship battery via ground transportation
• Rent or purchase replacement at destination
• Delay travel to arrange compliant batteries

Problem: International Airport Doesn't Accept U.S. Documentation

Solution:

1. Request English-speaking supervisor - Most international airports have English-proficient staff
2. Call airline representative - Airlines can intervene with airport security
3. Contact U.S. embassy or consulate - For significant travel disruptions
4. Show multiple forms of documentation - Sometimes one document succeeds where others fail

Prevention: Research destination country requirements 2-4 weeks before travel.

Battery Disposal and Replacement

When to Replace Medical Device Batteries

Signs battery needs replacement:

• Runtime significantly decreased (50% or more reduction)
• Longer charging times
• Battery swelling or shape changes
• Device displays battery warnings
• Battery age exceeds manufacturer recommendations (typically 2-5 years)

Don't travel with questionable batteries. The risk of mid-trip failure outweighs cost savings.

Safe Battery Disposal

Lithium batteries require special disposal:

Never:

• Throw in regular trash
• Incinerate
• Puncture or disassemble
• Leave in extreme heat or cold

Proper Disposal Methods:

1. Retail battery recycling programs - Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe's accept lithium batteries
2. Call2Recycle drop-off locations - Nationwide battery recycling network
3. Municipal hazardous waste collection - Check local government resources
4. Medical equipment supplier - Some accept old batteries for recycling

If traveling when battery needs disposal:

• Wait until returning home if possible
• Ask hotel concierge for local recycling resources
• Contact destination's environmental services department

Expert Tips from Frequent Medical Battery Travelers

Patricia L., POC user, 100+ flights: "I created a 'battery passport'—laminated card with all my battery specs, photos of labels, and calculations. TSA loves it, airlines accept it immediately, and I've never had a single delay in 3 years."

Michael R., CPAP traveler, 75+ international flights: "Different countries, different rules. I learned to carry three sets of documents: U.S. regulations, IATA guidelines, and translated prescriptions. Overkill? Maybe. But I've never been denied boarding."

Carmen T., wheelchair user, 200+ flights: "Battery documentation attached directly to my wheelchair transformed my travel experience. Check-in agents see it immediately, and I'm through the gate in record time. Best modification I ever made."

Top 10 Battery Travel Tips

1. Calculate watt-hours before purchasing batteries - Verify compliance before travel day
2. Carry specifications documentation - Photos, printouts, manufacturer letters
3. Organize batteries in clear bags - TSA screening goes 10x faster
4. Protect terminals religiously - Short circuits ground flights
5. Fully charge before travel - TSA may request power-on verification
6. Plan for battery life - Calculate runtime needs including delays
7. Research airline-specific policies - FAA minimums aren't universal
8. Notify airlines 48-72 hours ahead - Required for 100-160 Wh batteries
9. Inspect batteries before packing - Damaged batteries will be confiscated
10. Keep batteries in original packaging when possible - Easiest way to prove specifications

Battery Regulation Cheat Sheet

Quick Reference for Medical Device Travelers:

*Some airlines allow over 160 Wh with dangerous goods documentation—contact airline directly.

Final Battery Travel Checklist

2 Weeks Before Travel:

• Calculate or verify watt-hour ratings for all batteries
• Research airline-specific battery policies
• Prepare documentation (specs, prescriptions, manuals)
• Contact airline if carrying 100-160 Wh batteries
• Check international destination requirements

1 Week Before Travel:

• Inspect all batteries for damage
• Charge batteries to 100%
• Purchase terminal protection supplies (tape, bags)
• Print battery documentation
• Test device functionality

Day Before Travel:

• Pack batteries in carry-on with terminal protection
• Organize batteries in clear, labeled bags
• Place documentation with batteries
• Verify device is functioning properly
• Prepare explanation for TSA/airline staff

At Airport:

• Declare medical devices at check-in
• Inform TSA about batteries at security
• Show documentation proactively
• Monitor device throughout flight
• Report any battery issues immediately

Conclusion: Battery Compliance Equals Stress-Free Travel

Understanding lithium battery regulations transforms potential travel obstacles into manageable procedures. The key principles are simple:

✅ Know your battery capacity - Watt-hours determine everything ✅ Pack properly - Terminal protection prevents 95% of issues ✅ Document thoroughly - Specifications, prescriptions, manufacturer info ✅ Communicate proactively - Inform airlines and TSA early and clearly ✅ Monitor during travel - Your vigilance ensures safety

Thousands of medical device users travel successfully with lithium batteries every day. With preparation, proper documentation, and understanding of regulations, you'll join them in confident, compliant air travel.

Your medical equipment keeps you healthy. Proper battery management keeps you flying.

---

Questions about battery regulations? Connect with the MedFly Safe community for real-world advice from experienced medical device travelers.