The Inherent Risks of Lithium Batteries in Air TransportInternal Short Circuits Internal defects or damage to the battery's structure can create short circuits, causing rapid heat generation. Overcharging Charging a lithium battery beyond its recommended voltage limit can also trigger thermal runaway.
Should lithium batteries be shipped by air?
Regulations for shipping lithium batteries by air are in place to protect everyone who would come in contact with a lithium battery shipment while it is being transported as air cargo; with training being required for everyone in this supply chain, to protect the aircraft, and the people in the aircraft, that is carrying the batteries.
Are lithium-ion batteries a risk to aviation?
There is provision for exceptional updates where an unacceptable risk to aviation has been identified. Due to the high energy density of lithium batteries, usage of lithium-ion batteries is expected to increase elevenfold between 2020 and 2030.
These pages are undergoing reviews and updates. A lithium battery fire in the hold of an aircraft is a significant safety risk. Domestic and international incidents relating to lithium batteries have often involved incorrectly packed, marked and labelled batteries, as well as mis-declared or undeclared consignments.
How to safely transport lithium batteries?
Selecting suitable packaging, and then packing the batteries safely, is a key component to safely transporting lithium batteries. For larger batteries, the packaging may need to UN specifications. What type packaging you need is not a “one size fits all” answer.
What happens if a lithium battery is not transported?
Lithium batteries that are not transported in accordance with the applicable requirements present an increased likelihood of a fire in the cargo compartment, potentially resulting in a catastrophic incident.
Can you transport lithium batteries on a plane?
The transport of lithium batteries on their own is forbidden in the hold of passenger aircraft. Continued reporting of incidents is vital to help monitor current and emerging risks. Report a dangerous goods accident or incident. UK Mandatory Occurrence Reporting (MOR).