Is it possible to take an electric bike on a plane?

Are you going on vacation and want to actively explore the surrounding area? There's nothing better than taking your own electric bike with you. But is it possible to fly? And what about the battery? In this article, we explain what is (and isn't) allowed - and suggest some practical alternatives.

Woman exerting herself on her electric bike

Can you take an electric bike on a plane?

When you're planning a trip with your electric bike, you quickly ask yourself the question: can you take an e-bike on a plane? Unfortunately, the short answer is : no, not in its entirety.


Why is this? Because of the battery. Lithium-ion batteries are classified as class 9 dangerous goods according to international regulations. They can cause short-circuits or fires - a risk airlines don't want to take.


For example, you cannot check an electric bike in as sports or special baggageunlike conventional bicycles. Even mobility aids such as wheelchairs are subject to different rules.

What's allowed?

1. Carrying an electric bike without a battery


The most obvious solution is to remove the battery before the theft. If your bike is equipped with a removable battery, you can transport just the frame. But be careful:

  1. Not all airlines accept e-bikes without batteries.
  2. Your bike must comply with the maximum dimensions and weight for special luggage.
  3. Transport always involves the risk of damage - electric bike insurance can be a good idea.
Check with your airline in advance. Always pack your bike in a rigid bicycle case or suitable cardboard box.

Examples of companies that allow e-bikes without batteries (June 2025):

  1. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
  2. Air France
  3. Condor
  4. British Airways
  5. Emirates
  6. Lufthansa
  7. Qatar Airways
Typical conditions: battery removed, bike packed, checked in as special baggage 24 to 72 hours before departure.

2. Send battery separately by freight


 Sending the battery to a specialist company is theoretically possible, but very complex and costly:

  1. The battery must have passed the UN 38.3 test.
  2. Special packaging required, with regulated labelling.
  3. The declarant must provide a "dangerous goods declaration".
  4. Shipping must be carried out by a person trained in handling hazardous products.
As well as being complicated, this type of transport is expensive. And if the rules aren't perfectly respected, the fines can be high.

Alternatives to transporting an e-bike by plane


1. Rent an e-bike locally


In many tourist areas, you can easily rent an electric bike. It's often :

  1. Cheaper than air freight;
  2. More practical, with no worries about damage or loss;
  3. Ideal for short stays.
Not sure which type of bike is right for you? Check out our electric bike buying guide.

2. Planning a plane-free vacation


Why not stay closer to home, in the Netherlands, Belgium or Germany? Transporting an electric bike by train, bus or car is much simpler.

3. Buy an e-bike on site


Going to the same place often or for a long time? Buy a second bike and leave it behind. At Upway, you'll find reconditioned electric bikes up to 60% cheaper than new, with warranty.

Additional tips for travelling with an e-bike

Conclusion: take your electric bike on the plane? Not so easy.


Due to the strict regulations governing lithium batteries, it is generally impossible to transport your e-bike on a plane. But there's no shortage of alternatives: rent a bike locally, buy a dedicated bike for your vacation, or travel by means other than air.

Whatever you choose, make sure you're well prepared. At Upway, we'll help you find the perfect model - with reconditioned electric bikes, practical guides and tailored advice.

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