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The summer holidays are just around the corner and for you to enjoy them, before arriving at the airport, it is advisable to clarify an issue where interpretations often create confusion: is it possible to take cannabis on the plane?
The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes has gained acceptance in many countries, which raises questions about the possibility of traveling by plane with a prescription for medical cannabis. Hemp, or “CBD flowers”, are also very popular products that are available for sale in many shops, but often raise questions about transporting them during air travel to another country.
In this article, we will explore the rules regarding the transportation of cannabis on domestic and international flights to avoid potential legal complications and mishaps on your trip.
The legality of medical cannabis
The first step in determining the feasibility of traveling by air with medical cannabis is to understand the legality of cannabis in the country of origin and destination, as well as in transit countries.
Some countries have legalized the use of cannabis for medical purposes, while others consider it illegal or have strict regulations. Medical cannabis is legal in countries such as Canada, Germany, Australia, Israel, the Netherlands, Portugal, Uruguay, Colombia, Mexico, Italy, Spain, the Czech Republic, and several states in the United States. However, regulations and restrictions may differ, including prescription requirements, quantity, and age limits.
It is important to keep in mind that legislation and regulations related to medical cannabis are constantly changing, so it is essential to consult the specific laws of each country.
The legality of CBD flowers
CBD flowers are the buds of the cannabis plant that contain high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis.
Although it is possible to find shops selling CBD flowers in Spain, it is crucial to keep in mind that the marketing of cannabis products remains a controversial issue in Europe and may vary depending on the country you visit.
For this reason, it is not advisable to travel by plane with CBD flowers, as the legality and regulations related to cannabis and its derivatives can vary in different countries and airlines. Even if CBD is legal in your place of origin, there may be restrictions in the country of destination or during the journey.
In addition, airport authorities may consider CBD flowers as high-THC cannabis products until they are verified by laboratory analysis, and if found in your luggage, legal action may be taken.
Regulation of the transport of cannabis by air
The regulation of transporting medical cannabis by air is determined by the state and federal laws of the country you are in, rather than the specific policies of the airline.
For international flights, the laws of the country of origin and the country of destination prevail, so it is important to research the laws and regulations in both places to determine whether medical cannabis is allowed to be transported and what requirements must be met.
In certain countries, the transport of medical cannabis may be permitted under specific conditions, such as the presentation of medical documentation, completion of a pre-trip form, and adherence to established quantity limits. However, in other countries, it may be prohibited to transport any type of cannabis, even for medical purposes or with low THC levels.
As laws continue to evolve, it is advisable to take precautions to avoid unpleasant surprises during your trip, so we advise you to contact the government food or drug regulatory agency in the country you plan to travel to.
