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With the rapid growth in global demand for battery-powered products and the shift toward net-zero carbon emissions, air transport faces new challenges in handling and shipping batteries safely. From electric vehicles (EVs) to e-bikes, the increasing shipment of batteries poses potential risks not only to aircraft but also to passengers and crew. Despite regulations requiring shippers to declare hazardous goods, many shipments are incorrectly labeled or mishandled due to a lack of understanding about the dangers batteries can pose. To help with compliance, IATA has developed guidance for shippers, freight forwarders, ground handlers, airlines, and passengers.
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Batteries
Lithium and sodium ion batteries can be carried by air depending on configuration and Watt-hour rating (for rechargeable) or lithium content (for non-rechargeable). In addition, spare batteries are not allowed in checked baggage.
Guidance material
In the 23rd edition of the UN Model Regulations, the UN SCoETDG, made provisions for sodium ion batteries, with liquid organic electrolytes, marking a significant shift for 2025. To assist shippers in understanding the complete requirements related to the transport of batteries including lithium and sodium ion batteries, IATA has prepared an updated Lithium Battery Guidance Document (pdf).
This 2025 guidance document includes guidance on the carriage of battery-powered cargo tracking devices and data loggers as well as updated and additional FAQs for shippers to learn how to comply with the 66th Edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) on definitions, classifications, exceptions, and prohibitions.
We have also put together the Battery Shipping Regulations (BSR), a manual with all the information manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, freight forwarders and others in the supply chain need to ensure compliance when shipping batteries.
Raising awareness
Preparation is a key component in understanding the terms of the Regulations. IATA has created a training course on Shipping Lithium Batteries by Air that covers all aspects of the identification, packing, marking and labeling, as well as the documentation requirements on lithium batteries transportation.