Can You Take Edibles on a Plane?

Safe and short answer: no! Long answer: It is more of a coin toss and could be quite complex. But before we go any further, it is important to understand that the legalization of cannabis for recreational use in most states of the US is quite recent as well as an ongoing process. While some states have legalized the recreational use of cannabis, it remains a controlled substance on the federal level. 

You will likely be crossing state borders while flying with cannabis edibles, so it boils down to a few questions: Is cannabis legal in the state you’re traveling to? Is there a legal limit? Would you be subjected to state laws or federal laws if cannabis was found on you at the airport? Murky waters! But don’t worry; we are here to help you gain some clarity on the matter.

Is Cannabis Legal in the State You’re Traveling To?

We’ve already established that not all states in the US have legalized the recreational use or possession of cannabis. So before you take edibles on a plane, the first thing you want to find out is the legal status of cannabis in the state you are traveling to. Why? It will determine the airport security personnel’s attitude toward searching for it and the consequences of finding it in your possession. It would not matter that you are coming from California, where cannabis is fully legal; you are now in Arkansas, and laws are laws. Here is a full list of states where cannabis has legal status.

Is There a Legal Limit?

Of course, there is a legal limit on the amount of cannabis that can be in your possession. It is how the government determines if you have intent to distribute. Imagine taking a medium-sized travel box filled with edibles on a plane–you’re not beating any allegations.

The active ingredient in cannabis and its products, including edibles, is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Thus, THC serves as the standard metric. The Transport Security Administration (TSA) is required to notify local security if cannabis or any of its products with over 0.3% THC is found in your possession according to federal laws. 

State laws differ a bit. California, for example, allows adults age 21 and older to possess 28.5 grams of marijuana and 8 grams of concentrated marijuana for personal consumption. You’re looking at possible legal issues beyond that.

Would You Be Subjected to State or Federal Laws?

This is quite a dicey one. You’re in the airport, and the federal government runs the airports. Let’s assume you’re also in California, where cannabis possession is legal. Quite the dilemma, isn’t it? The TSA personnel on the ground decides what is next. 

You might be okay if you are found in possession of cannabis above the federal limit in this scenario. More importantly, the amount should be within legal limits so that you are not suspected of intending to distribute. You’d have to drop the cannabis in an amnesty box provided at the airport before being allowed to board the plane. 

However, it’s a different case if you are leaving or going to a state where possession is considered illegal. It also becomes a double tragedy if you have above the legal federal weight on you. There is no getting around this. The TSA is obligated to report you to local authorities, and the state will then handle your case and apply the law as necessary.

Are There Any Alternatives?

If you’ve gained any clarity on this matter, you now know that while you might get edibles on a plane, the risk might not be worth it. Here are some other alternatives you could explore to stay on the safe side of the law.

Purchase Locally on Arrival 

This is an obvious one: buy your edibles in your arrival city if cannabis is legal there. This way, you avoid security issues at the airport, you don’t break any laws during your flight, and you still get your edibles.

Travel with a Substitute

Instead of edibles, why not look into other cannabis products? Delta-8 gummies, which are candies infused with cannabinoids, are small and can easily pass as regular candies. While delta-8 is less potent, the advantage is that it’s discrete and less likely to catch the attention of TSA personnel.

Eat Before You Board

If you must eat edibles on your flight, you can as well eat them before you get to the airport. This way, you are not breaking any laws and cannot be suspected of intending to distribute.

What is the TSA’s Stand on Cannabis Possession?

The TSA is a federal agency; as such, they abide by the federal regulations on cannabis possession. However, the TSA isn’t necessarily on the lookout for cannabis during security checks at the airport. They are more concerned with items that threaten the security of other passengers. This includes but is not limited to, guns, matchboxes, explosive devices, flammable materials, large amounts of chemicals and alcohol, etc.

So, the chance of tripping an alarm with your edibles is slim. If they’re found, it will most likely be by accident. And as earlier mentioned, they’re obligated to report you to local authorities if you’re carrying above the legal limit.

Conclusion 

We told you these were murky waters, and now you can see why. We suggest you play it safe with taking edibles while boarding a plane by exploring the alternatives we’ve provided instead. The ball is in your court at the end of the day, and it remains your choice to play it safe or toss a coin to your witcher. But remember, this is just for edibles. Possession of cannabis for medical purposes is legal in most states of the country, so always make sure to carry along your medical cannabis card while traveling. Book an appointment with us today to get yours.