Can I Bring Power Tools on a Plane? Guide for Safe Travel
When planning a trip, many travelers wonder if they can bring power tools such as drills and screwdrivers on the plane. This guide explores the regulations, safety concerns, and practical solutions for bringing these essential tools with you.
TSA Regulations and Lithium Batteries
According to the TSA website, drills and similar power tools can be brought as carry-on items provided they do not contain lithium-ion batteries. Specifically, the website states that drills are allowed in carry-on bags but not in checked bags.
However, the final decision about what is allowed is determined by the TSA officer on duty. Given the high costs of power tools (e.g., a battery-powered drill can cost around $150), many travelers opt for extreme caution to avoid confiscation.
The primary concern is the safety of lithium batteries, which can fail in a process known as thermal runaway, leading to fires that could be extremely dangerous in the cargo hold. While most incidents involving lithium batteries have occurred with cargo planes, there have been reports of such incidents on passenger planes. For example, on April 26, 2014, a Boeing 737 departing from Melbourne had a fire that was noticed before takeoff due to lithium batteries in checked bags. These batteries can pose significant risks if they catch fire in the aircraft’s cargo hold.
Safeguarding Lithium Batteries
To minimize the risk of confiscation or safety issues, it is recommended to remove the battery from the tool and pack it separately in your carry-on luggage. Avoid placing the battery in your hand luggage as TSA regulations do not permit this. A photo of a FedEx cargo plane after an in-flight fire incident can provide an alarming illustration of the potential dangers involved.
Examples and Exceptions
It is not uncommon for confiscated goods to include electric screwdrivers. In one instance, working near an airport’s office of confiscated goods, electric screwdrivers were among the items registered for confiscation. This underscores the importance of adhering to TSA regulations and not bringing power tools with activated batteries.
While most power tools, such as drills and screwdrivers, require special attention to lithium batteries, other tools have different regulations. For instance, small torque drivers might be allowed, whereas tools with large blade attachments (e.g., saws) are generally not permitted in either carry-on or checked luggage.
Maintenance personnel on aircraft, such as mechanics, are exempt and can carry their tools. However, for regular travelers, it is crucial to follow the guidelines set by the TSA for passenger safety.
Alternatives for Brief Travel
For short trips, the best option is to transport power tools as checked baggage. However, if you must carry them in your hand luggage, remove the batteries and place them in your carry-on. This practice reduces the risk of confiscation and enhances safety.
Conclusion
While power tools are generally not allowed on planes due to safety concerns, there are ways to bring them safely. By understanding the regulations and taking appropriate precautions, travelers can enjoy their tools without the risk of confiscation or safety incidents. Always check the latest TSA guidelines and inform your travel companions of the rules to ensure a smoother journey.