Red Batteries taken by airport security

[Stephen Strangways]

So in your opinion, "installed" means that it's included in the device and can't be removed. Maybe you're right, but their explanation isn't very clear...

I think "installed" can be taken to mean "fully enclosed with the device" whether or not it's removable.

That would make the most sense if the regulations are there for safety reasons, but I think we all know that air travel regulations these days have little to do with actual real-world safety.

[Stuart English]

So in your opinion, "installed" means that it's included in the device and can't be removed. Maybe you're right, but their explanation isn't very clear...

In my opinion, yes. But it certainly would be better if they explained their definition of "installed", as it's an apparent regulatory loophole that may lead to unfortunate consequences - even if that is just a large fine.

So that's why I say it would be safest to assume "installed" does not mean "attached" i.e. a battery attached to a V plate - or any other type of battery plate - does not qualify as "installed", but instead qualifies as a "spare".

[Mike 'Fireman' Ross]

I think "installed" can be taken to mean "fully enclosed with the device" whether or not it's removable.

That would make the most sense if the regulations are there for safety reasons, but I think we all know that air travel regulations these days have little to do with actual real-world safety.

I would take the plain-English meaning; if the device turns on when you hit the switch, the battery is installed correctly.

Mike

[Stephen Strangways]

Stuart is exactly right about the intent probably being they don't want the terminals shorted out, and it could also be considered helpful to have it fully enclosed in a device, where it is less likely to suffer physical damage or exposure to liquids.

[Brent J. Craig]

How did you monitor remaining power?

With the 'gas gauge' lights on the battery. Not as convenient as the Red percentage readout, but just another compromise that you have to make to travel with gear.

[Brent J. Craig]

My super thorough AC Brent Craig went one step further and printed them in different languages.

Thanks, D [blushing]

Since airport security is all about the bureaucracy, I found that having the printouts of the regulations laminated and included in each battery bag made all the difference.

[Ned Wilson]

So let me get this straight.

(3) batteries no bigger than 300 whrs or 100 whrs (not sure which)
(2) batts with carry on
(1) batt carry on installed on device

Could the device be as simple as a LED mini running off a Dtap?

[Stuart English]

I would take the plain-English meaning; if the device turns on when you hit the switch, the battery is installed correctly.

This is a good example of why the language needs tightening up, but personally I'd not rely on that as a definition. What if your battery is dislodged from the plate - either by turbulence or someone dropping the camera bag?

[Aaron Bernakevitch]

Swits are good just purchased the 4 and the quad charger (bundle package saved some cash). Worth the money as they last longer then the Red and do really well in the Canadian cold :)

[Mark Pugh]

Wow, it's great to know that some airlines have no idea what the published rules are. It's pretty straightforward.

The airlines can make their own rules, even though they mightn't make sense, and are a PITA.
Qantas will not allow any batteries of over 160wh, period. They are not alone on that.

A couple of years ago, on one airline, I was told I must hand-carry lithium batteries. On the next leg, in the next airport, I was told, just before boarding, they must be checked in!!!

It seems to me that more staff have become aware of their company policies in the last 12 months or so, and are more likely to pull out a laminated copy of them at check-in.

The SWIT 80+80s are great for travel. The only smart way to go.
I got them on a great deal. They last quite a few minutes more than a RED Brick in a RED One camera.