Where to pack DRYFOB XL when flying

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OP
pasley

pasley

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Scuba Instructor
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Recently switch to carrying an EPLB instead of a Nautilus (bought the first year they came out) and a DRYFOB to carry the EPLB during the SCUBA dive. So taking an international flight the question occurs to me of "Where to I pack it?" Given it is a metal cylinder of some size I imagine TSA and others when seeing it on a scanner would want to examine it. So that would argue for the Carry-on, or should it be in my Dive Bag? Thoughts? TSA what say you?
DRYFOB XL.JPG
 
We have always brought our DRYFOBs on the plane and have never had issues with TSA or with Pressure. This includes some 11 hour flights. The seal should prevent any pressure from building up. That said, leaving it open a quarter turn is not a bad idea, I usually do that even when we ship the units out. Of course, nothing wrong with keeping the lid off, but be sure to check the o-rings carefully to make sure they are clean before diving it. @KenE , send me a DM and we'll see what we can do about your lid :)

Further reading on some camera case issues suggests that if you open it on the plane and close it while in a pressurized cabin you might be asking for trouble.
Jaan, Thanks for the offer. It adds character to the case and is a great story. It was definitely caused by pressure changes between closing and opening. I agree, if you don't touch it, then it will be fine. However, flying through Denver and having TSA look in your bags can be problematic. So, I just suggest on all seals to leave them open when flying. This prevents any issues. Always check o-rings when closing any sealed lid! A bit of lube is not a bad idea either.
 
Not sure about TSA specifically but have taken a PLB and case as hand luggage plenty of times. Normally put it in the tray so it's easier for them to inspect.
 

Q: Can I carry my PLB on an aircraft as luggage.


Although your PLB can be safely carried on board a passenger aircraft as either checked in or carry on luggage under section 2.3.5.9 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, please check with the airline(s) prior to your trip to address any airline specific regulations specific to individual airlines. The Lithium metal battery in your PLB contains less than 2g of Lithium and has been tested in accordance with section 38.3 of the UN Manual of Tests. Precautions should be taken to prevent accidental activation if placed in checked in baggage.


Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only.

With airline approval, passengers may also carry up to two spare larger lithium ion batteries (101–160 Wh) or lithium metal batteries (2-8 grams). This size covers the larger after-market extended-life laptop computer batteries and some larger batteries used in professional audio/visual equipment. There is a limit of two spare batteries per person for the larger lithium ion batteries described above (101–160 watt hours per battery. For more information, see the FAA regulations on batteries.

Leaving it in the DRYFOB, or some other way to prevent accidental activation is a good idea too.

p.s. What a beautiful case :) :)
 

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