Transportation of Acousonde™ batteries

A single small lithium-cell battery powers the Acousonde™. Because lithium is a hazardous material, government regulations affect how these batteries may be transported. Within the United States, transportation of small lithium cells is governed by Department of Transportation (DOT) Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 49, Parts 171, 172, 173, and 175. This FAQ summarizes these regulations as they apply to the battery used in the Acousonde. Regulations change from time to time, however, and we make no representation that this FAQ is complete or correct.

The battery currently recommended for the Acousonde is the Saft LS17500 A-size 3.6V lithium primary cell.

• Can I ship or transport the Acousonde's batteries aboard passenger aircraft?
• What if I am personally traveling with the Acousonde?
• Can I ship the Acousonde's batteries by cargo aircraft?



Can I ship or transport the Acousonde's batteries aboard passenger aircraft?

Where United States regulations apply, transport aboard passenger aircraft is only allowed for one battery per Acousonde that is being transported at the same time, up to a maximum of 24 battery cells (and 24 associated Acousondes). The batteries must be transported either in or packaged with the Acousonde. (US DOT CFR Title 49, Part 172.102, Special Provision 188)

What if I am personally traveling with the Acousonde?

United States DOT CFR Title 49, Part 175.10 specifically mentions passenger transportation of spare batteries (including lithium batteries) for personal use of portable electronics, provided each spare battery is "individually protected so as to prevent short circuits (by placement in original retail packaging or by otherwise insulating terminals, e.g., by taping over exposed terminals or placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or protective pouch) and carried in carry-on baggage only." By discussing spare battery cells, Part 175.10 appears to offer a limited exemption to the one-cell-per-device rule called out in Special Provision 188; however, this is neither a suggestion nor a legal opinion. Without consulting a legal advisor we cannot recommend that you carry more than one cell per Acousonde aboard passenger aircraft.

Can I ship the Acousonde's batteries by cargo aircraft?

Saft certifies that the LS17500 is "non-restricted to transport" and "non-assigned to Class 9". This indicates a very low level of hazard relative to larger lithium batteries and cells. Nevertheless, you may be subject to weight restrictions and/or packing requirements depending on whether the batteries are being shipped within the US or internationally. Please contact your cargo representative to see what regulations and packing requirements apply.