Flying with a Foil Assist: How the Manta TakeOff EVO's Modular Battery System Keeps You Airline Legal

For hydrofoilers, traveling to destination swells or pristine bays is the ultimate dream. But when it comes to electric hydrofoils (eFoils) and motor assist systems, air travel has traditionally been a major headache. Lithium-ion batteries of significant capacity are strictly prohibited on passenger aircraft under international aviation regulations (FAA and TSA guidelines). Most eFoil batteries are over 1000 Wh, making them cargo-only and highly expensive to ship.

This is where the Manta TakeOff EVO electric foil assist system shines. Engineered specifically with destination foiling in mind, Manta foils designed a revolutionary, airline-legal modular battery system that lets you pack your motor assist in your carry-on luggage and fly anywhere in the world.

Understanding the Under-100Wh Airline Regulation

According to the TSA, FAA, and international aviation agencies, passengers are permitted to carry lithium-ion batteries in their carry-on luggage if each individual battery has a capacity of **100 Watt-hours (Wh) or less**. Most smartphones, laptops, and camera batteries fall safely under this limit.

Manta Foils utilized this rule to create the TakeOff EVO's unique power supply. Instead of a single large battery pack, the TakeOff EVO uses **modular sub-packs**, each rated at exactly **97 Wh**. Because each sub-pack is under the 100 Wh threshold, they are fully legal to carry on passenger flights in your hand luggage. When you arrive at your destination, you simply slot the sub-packs together into the battery housing on your board, and they combine to create a high-capacity power system.

Modular Battery Configurations

The Manta TakeOff EVO's modular design lets you customize your battery pack to balance weight and run time depending on your travel needs:

• The Air Pack (194 Wh): Formed by combining two 97 Wh sub-packs. This configuration keeps the board extremely light (ideal for high-performance surfing and carving) and provides 15 to 30 minutes of ride time.
• The Endurance Pack (518 Wh): Formed by combining five 97 Wh sub-packs. This setup is perfect for long downwinders or extended sessions, delivering up to 70 minutes of motorized assist.

Pro Tips for Flying with Your TakeOff EVO

1. Pack Batteries in Carry-On Only: Never place lithium-ion batteries in your checked luggage. Keep them in your carry-on bag.
2. Use Protective Caps: Keep the battery terminals covered or place each sub-pack in an individual plastic bag to prevent short circuits.
3. Keep Documentation Ready: Keep a copy of the Manta TakeOff EVO user manual or spec sheet handy. The labels on the sub-packs clearly state '97 Wh,' which makes verification by security agents quick and stress-free.