Lithium-ion cells and batteries must be offered for transport at a state of charge not exceeding 30% of their rated capacity. This becomes a mandatory requirement on 1 January 2026.
What are the requirements for a lithium battery?
The lithium batteries must be of a type that have successfully passed the UN38.3 tests and contain the necessary systems to prevent overcharge and over discharge between the batteries.
When will lithium ion batteries be available for air transport?
From 1 January 2026, lithium-ion batteries that are packed with equipment and vehicles powered by lithium ion or sodium ion batteries must be offered for air transport with the battery at a reduced state of charge, unless otherwise approved by the relevant States (A331).
Are lithium ion batteries subject to dangerous goods training requirements?
Shippers of lithium or sodium ion batteries prepared in accordance with Section II of the lithium battery packing instructions are not subject to the formal dangerous goods training requirements set out in DGR 1.5. However, persons preparing such shipments must be provided with “adequate instruction” as described in DGR 1.6.
Are lithium ion batteries compatible with a cargo transport unit?
This guide only applies to lithium ion batteries or lithium metal batteries installed in a cargo transport unit and designed only to provide power external to the cargo transport unit.
What are the shipping requirements for a lithium ion battery?
All packages prepared in accordance with Packing Instruction 968, Section IA, IB and II, must bear a Cargo Aircraft Only label, in addition to other required marks and/or labels. All lithium ion cells and batteries (UN 3480 only) must be shipped at a state of charge (SoC) not exceeding 30% of their rated capacity.
Are lithium batteries subject to additional requirements?
Lithium metal or lithium alloy cells and batteries offered for transport are not subject to other additional requirements of these Regulations if they meet the requirements in this section, in addition to the General Requirements, above.. 5.0.2 .12.1.