Yes you can take the needle work on the plane. But do be careful as each country has its own rules.. so what you got on the plane in the US may not be allowed on the plane for the return trip. I have a small pair of folding scissors , blade no longer than 1/2 inch. These have made many flights with no issue. My mom on the other hand takes knitting.. no problem in the US , but one Country confiscated her needles when she was returning home .. so you never know.