Key Updates: IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations 66th Edition, Addendum 1 (Effective 30 April 2025)
1. Overview of Changes
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has published Addendum 1 to the 66th Edition of the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), effective 30 April 2025. This addendum primarily updates Section 4.2 (The Dangerous Goods List) and includes revisions to State & Operator Variations and Lithium Battery Packing Instructions.
2. Major Updates to the Dangerous Goods List (Section 4.2)
A. Sodium-Ion Battery Regulations (New Entries)
The addendum formally introduces regulatory entries for sodium-ion batteries, a newer battery chemistry.
| UN Number | Proper Shipping Name | Class | Key Restrictions / Packing Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| UN 3551 | Sodium ion batteries with organic electrolyte | Class 9 | New entry. Forbidden on passenger aircraft. Restricted to Cargo Aircraft Only (CAO) under PI 976 (max 35 kg per package). |
| UN 3552 | Sodium ion batteries contained in or packed with equipment | Class 9 | New entries. Contained in equipment: PI 978 (passenger: 5 kg, cargo: 35 kg). Packed with equipment: PI 977 (passenger: 5 kg, cargo: 35 kg). |
| UN 3171 | Battery-powered equipment/vehicle | Class 9 | Updated applicable packaging instructions to PI 952 for both passenger and cargo aircraft. |
B. Reclassification of Specific Substances
The classification and entries for certain corrosive substances have been refined.
| UN Number | Substance | Changes / New Classification |
|---|---|---|
| UN 3423 | Tetramethylammonium hydroxide, solid | Entry revised. Primary hazard now definitively Class 8 (Corrosive) with Class 6.1 (Toxic) as subsidiary risk. Changes applicable packing group and packing instructions (e.g., PI 859/863 for PG II). |
| UN 1835 | Tetramethylammonium hydroxide, solution (≤ 2.5% concentration) | Class 8, Packing Group III (e.g., PI Y841/852/856). |
| Tetramethylammonium hydroxide, solution (2.5% but <25% concentration) | Class 8 with subsidiary risk 6.1 (Toxic), Packing Group II (e.g., PI Y840/851/855). |
3. Compliance Implications
- Shippers of sodium-ion batteries must immediately stop using previous lithium battery packing instructions and adopt the new, specific PIs (976, 977, 978) based on how the battery is transported (standalone, contained in, or packed with equipment).
- Shippers of Tetramethylammonium Hydroxide must reassess the classification for the solid form (UN 3423) based on its primary corrosive hazard. For solutions (UN 1835), the exact concentration must be determined to apply the correct class, subsidiary risk, packing group, and packing instruction.
- All Shipper's Declarations for Dangerous Goods issued on or after 30 April 2025 must comply with the updated Dangerous Goods List in Addendum 1.
- Operators' specific variations (codes like A67, A88) listed in the updated table must also be consulted for final shipment planning.
Conclusion
Addendum 1 to the IATA DGR 66th Edition introduces critical new rules for sodium-ion batteries and clarifies the classification for specific corrosive substances. Stakeholders involved in the air transport of these goods must update their procedures, training, and documentation to ensure full compliance with the revised regulations effective 30 April 2025.
Key Takeaways for Supply Chain Stakeholders
- Effective 30 April 2025, sodium-ion batteries have their own UN numbers and packing instructions separate from lithium batteries.
- UN 3551 sodium-ion batteries are forbidden on passenger aircraft - only cargo aircraft with PI 976.
- UN 3552 (batteries contained in or packed with equipment) may travel on passenger aircraft under PI 977/978 with quantity limits.
- Tetramethylammonium hydroxide solutions require concentration testing to determine correct classification and packing group.
- All DG declarations issued on or after 30 April 2025 must reflect these updated entries.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information based on IATA DGR 66th Edition Addendum 1. Always consult the official IATA DGR, certified dangerous goods personnel, and your freight forwarder for specific cargo compliance requirements.