July 28, 2024

Can You Fly With Edibles?

Can you fly with edibles? This has become an all-too-common question thanks to the rise in popularity of hemp-derived THC products. But the answer isn't as straightforward as a simple yes or no.

While you can bring edibles on a plane on domestic flights, they must contain no more than 0.3 percent hemp-derived delta-9 THC. There are also a few other technicalities you'll want to note before you pack your bags, like specific airline policies and local regulations.

Before your take off, here is everything to double-check when flying with edibles.

Are Edibles Legal?

Short answer: Yes. But… before you run out for a pre-flight shopping spree, you'll want to read through the longer conversation about how edibles are only legal under specific conditions.

The legality of all edibles depends on the active ingredient(s). According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp and its derivatives (including delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC, CBD, and others) are legal, provided they contain no more than 0.3 percent delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis.

Anything that exceeds this 0.3 percent limit of delta-9 THC falls into the marijuana category. Marijuana remains a Schedule 1 Controlled Substance and is illegal under federal regulations.

And remember, no matter the federal laws, state laws vary. It's essential to check local regulations regarding the legality and sale of different cannabinoids at your destination. Always ensure the products you travel with are legal at the destination.

Hemp vs. Marijuana

Does this classification sound overly complicated? Let's break it down a bit more.

Technically speaking, hemp and marijuana are just subspecies of the same plant: Cannabis sativa L. As explained, an edible’s delta-9 THC content dictates whether it's classified as hemp (legal) or marijuana (illegal).

In the simplest terms:

Marijuana: Over 0.3 percent delta-9 THC; illegal on a federal level.
Hemp: Under 0.3 percent delta-9 THC; legal on a federal level.

Can You Bring Edibles on a Plane?

The difference between hemp and marijuana may seem like a trivial matter, especially as it boils down to a few percentage points of THC.

But, airports and airplanes are all managed by the Federal Aviation Authority. This means that no matter what state you are flying from and landing in, the delta-9 THC contents of your edibles fall under federal rules.

To bring edibles on your next flight, ensure to double-check the following:

THC Contents: Do the edibles contain less than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis?
Airline Regulations: Does the airline allow the transport of hemp-derived edibles?
Destination Regulations: Does the destination ban any hemp-derived products or cannabinoids?

What if you are flying with a vape? While hemp vapes fall under the same rules as hemp edibles, the device complicates packing. Check out our guide to flying with a vape for more information.

Flying with Edibles: Rules & Regulations

No matter where you fly, technically, air travel falls under several layers of rules and regulations. Here are the most important to note:

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The TSA handles airport security in the US. Its primary focus is on security threats, not drug enforcement. But, if TSA officers discover cannabis products, including edibles, during security screenings, they are required to report it to local law enforcement. The TSA states:

"TSA's screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers. Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.."

So, if you’re bringing hemp-derived edibles on your flight, we recommend keeping them in their original packaging and bringing a printed Certificate of Analysis (more on this later).

Federal Aviation Authority

According to a recent article by the Washington Post citing federal aviation regulations, "No airline may allow anyone to board a plane if the passenger appears to be intoxicated."

If you are flying with edibles that lead to euphoric and elevated experiences, you'll want to keep them in your bags until you reach your destination.

International Law

Just because hemp is legal in the US doesn't mean it's safe to bring your edibles with you on international trips. Even if you were to travel between two countries with legal hemp–let's say the US and Canada–it's highly illegal to transport any cannabis products over international borders. It's advised to leave your hemp products at home when traveling internationally.

How to Bring Edibles Without a Medical Card: HEMP!

We'll say it once, and we'll say it again: The only way to fly with a pack or two of THC gummies is when they are hemp gummies.

But once you've ticked that critical rule off your list, there are a few more guidelines for edibles on a plane:

Bring Receipts and COAs:

Carry your purchase receipt and a printed Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify the legitimacy of your hemp products if questioned.

Keep Edibles in Their Original Packaging:

Maintain the original packaging for easy identification by TSA and law enforcement. If you get randomly searched, the original packaging will ensure no mixups.

Enjoy After Arrival, Not Before:

Suppose your edibles are of the euphoric variety, infused with hemp-derived cannabinoids like delta-8 or delta-9. In that case, keep those safely sealed (or even keep the edibles in a checked bag) until reaching your destination. It's against federal regulations to fly while under the influence of anything.

Ready to Take Off? Fly with Hometown Hero Edibles

Make your next trip one to remember with a bit of edible bliss tucked into your luggage. All of Hometown Hero's edibles come from hemp legally grown on a small farm in Texas. Not only do we test everything for potency and purity, but every package is clearly labeled with a QR code, making the COA readily available when needed.

From our Delta-9 Live Rosin Taffies to our Balance THC + CBD Gummies, we have a delicious lineup of legal options ready to take flight.

Until our next adventure, Mind your Mind.

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.