4 Popular Airlines Are IGNORING This TSA Airport Rule

If you’re flying into or out of Orlando International Airport (MCO) and thinking about bringing a hoverboard (maybe as a gift), there’s something you need to know.

MCO Airport

Even though the TSA says it’s fine in theory, that’s not the whole story. Airlines are allowed to set their own rules, and spoiler alert: Most of them are not cool with it. Here’s what you need to know before showing up at security and getting a very disappointing surprise.

American Airlines: Hard No

Thinking of flying American with your hoverboard in tow? Not gonna happen. American Airlines has one of the strictest policies — they flat-out don’t allow hoverboards at all. Doesn’t matter if the battery’s removed, checked, carry-on, duct-taped to your suitcase — if it’s a lithium battery-powered personal transport device, it’s a no.

©American Airlines

They’re not playing around with it, either. Their policy covers all “personal transportation devices” powered by lithium-ion batteries, which includes hoverboards, balance boards, and basically anything that looks like it belongs in a “Back to the Future” reboot.

Southwest Airlines: Nope, Not Even as Cargo

Southwest goes one step further than just banning them from the plane — they won’t even let you ship a hoverboard as cargo. They’ve got a whole list of banned devices: hoverboards, e-bikes, Segways, uniwheels, Razor-style scooters, gravity boards, etc. Basically, if it has a battery and moves, they don’t want it. And they’re very clear that this applies regardless of whether the battery is installed or not.

©Southwest Airlines

So even if you were thinking, “Oh, I’ll just pack it up super safely with the battery out,” it’s still a no-go. Not in your checked bag, not in your carry-on, and not in a box under the plane.

Delta Air Lines: Big Safety Energy

Delta’s in the same camp. Their policy is all about safety — they say they’re protecting customers and employees, and for that reason, they do not accept hoverboards or any lithium battery-powered, self-balancing devices.

©Delta Airlines

These are banned both in carry-on and checked bags. It doesn’t matter how small the battery is or how secure you think it is — if it’s a self-balancing personal transport, it’s not allowed. So again, hoverboard = stay at home.

United Airlines: They’re Not Just Saying “No” — They’ve Got a Whole List

United might have the most detailed breakdown of what’s not allowed, and hoverboards are high on that list. They specifically say they won’t accept any devices designed to be used “like a vehicle.” Here’s what’s on the no-no list:

©United Airlines

Basically, if you can stand on it and it moves, United’s not letting it on the plane — not as a carry-on, not in your checked luggage.

What Should You Do?

If you absolutely need to bring a hoverboard with you, here’s what we recommend:

Check Your Airline’s Policy FIRST. Seriously, do not just assume. Even if you flew with it once before, policies can change.
Call and Ask if It’s Not Clear. If it’s not listed online or you’re confused by the wording, just call your airline’s customer service.
Have a Backup Plan. If your airline says no, you may need to ship it separately (not through the airline) or buy one locally once you arrive.

At the end of the day, the hoverboard may seem like a small thing, but it can turn into a big airport headache if you don’t double-check the rules. And if you’re flying into MCO for a Disney trip, you already know the airport is chaotic enough without having to deal with last-minute repacking or ditching expensive gear.

As always, keep following DFB for more travel news and updates.