Search

Congress Considers Lithium Battery Air Ban

Posted on 2/12/2016 by Roger Marks

A Bill introduced in the US Senate this week would give the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authority to ban bulk shipments of lithium-ion batteries from being carried as cargo on passenger airlines. If passed, the legislation would:

  • Repeal a 2012 ban that prohibited FAA from imposing restrictions on lithium-ion batteries that are more stringent than international rules created by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO); and
  • Create a task force to promote research and new standards for safe lithium battery manufacturing, use, and transportation.
A similar proposal failed to gain support in the House of Representatives earlier this week. The Senate bill—S. 2528, the Lithium Battery Safety Act of 2016—has been referred to the Senate committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

lithium ion batteries for air transport

ICAO Set to Ban Lithium Ion Battery Shipments

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is already mulling a ban on lithium-ion batteries carried as cargo on passenger flights. An ICAO panel recommended a ban in January which the organization is expected to vote on later this month. Previously, a similar ban on lithium-ion batteries was rejected by ICAO in an 11–7 vote.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents major air carriers, has already begun preparing for a lithium-ion battery ban to take place starting April 1.

April 1 also marks the beginning of the latest changes for lithium battery shippers. Added to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) in an Addendum published last month, new requirements for lithium battery air shippers include a limit on state-of-charge (30%), restrictions on number of packages and number of batteries per package, and more.

Expert Training on New Lithium Battery Rules

Learn the latest rules and fulfill the DOT, IATA, and IMO training requirements to ship lithium-ion and/or lithium-metal batteries by ground, air, and vessel with the interactive Shipping Lithium Batteries Online Course. Complete your certification training at your own pace, from any Internet connection, 24/7, and get help from IT customer support 7 days a week. Plus, get a full 365 days of Lion Membership to help you keep up with lithium battery rules that seem to change by the day—get answers to your questions, access exclusive content and resources, and be among the first to know when rules change.  

Tags: DOT, hazmat shipping, ICAO, lithium batteries

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Lion was very responsive to my initial questions and the website was user friendly.

Michael Britt

Supply Chain Director

I was recently offered an opportunity to take my training through another company, but I politely declined. I only attend Lion Technology workshops.

Stephanie Gilliam

Material Production/Logistics Manager

The training was impressive. I am not a fan of online training but this was put together very well. I would recommend Lion to others.

Donnie James

Quality Manager

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Lion's course was superior to others I have taken in the past. Very clear in the presentation and the examples helped to explain the content presented.

George Bersik

Hazardous Waste Professional

The instructor was very dedicated to providing a quality experience. She did her best to make sure students were really comprehending the information.

Stephanie Venn

Inventory Control Specialist

Excellent course. Very interactive. Explanations are great whether you get the questions wrong or right.

Gregory Thompson

Environmental, Health & Safety Regional Manager

I attended training from another provider and learned absolutely nothing. Lion is much better. Hands down.

Nicole Eby

Environmental Specialist

Lion is easily and consistently the best option for compliance training. I've learned new information from every instructor I've had.

Rachel Mathis

EHS Specialist

The instructor was probably the best I ever had! He made the class enjoyable, was humorous at times, and very knowledgeable.

Mary Sue Michon

Environmental Administrator

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Ace hazmat inspections. Protect personnel. Defend against civil and criminal penalties. How? See the self-audit "best practices" for hazardous materials shippers.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.