Jim,
Perhaps this will help:
Caution: Federal Regulations prohibit the carriage of spare lithium style batteries, such as laptop and DVD player rechargeable batteries and lithium metal AA style batteries, in your checked luggage. If you have any type of lithium spare batteries, each must be placed in its own protective case, plastic bag, or package, or place tape across the battery's contacts to isolate terminals. They may only be brought in your carry on bags.
Further information can be found at: http://safetravel.dot.gov/
I would check with your airlines when you book your flight.