Important Update: New Regulations for the Air Transport of Lithium Batteries Effective April 1, 2022
In efforts to enhance safety, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) revised the Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air during its Dangerous Goods Panel meeting in May 2021. Correspondingly, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has removed the Section II packing instructions for lithium batteries shipped alone from the 2022 edition of the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR, 63rd edition), with a transition period ending March 31, 2022.
⚠️ Critical Change: Shipments previously prepared under Section II requirements (which only required the "Cargo Aircraft Only" label and lithium battery handling mark) will no longer be acceptable for transport.
Key Exceptions & Scope
- This change does NOT apply to lithium batteries packed with or contained in equipment.
- This revision is specific to air transport. Regulations for road (ADR), rail (RID), and sea (IMDG Code) transport remain unchanged at this time.
📋 Revised Labeling/Marking Requirements (per IATA DGR):
- Class 9 Hazard Label: Minimum dimensions 100×100 mm. White background with seven vertical black stripes in the upper half and a battery group pictogram in the lower half.
- Cargo Aircraft Only Label: Minimum dimensions 120×110 mm.
- Lithium Battery Handling Mark: Must include the applicable UN number(s) and a 24-hour emergency contact telephone number.
Action Required for Shippers
⚠️ Immediate Action Required: Shippers who have previously prepared shipments under PI 965-II / 968-II must immediately update their packaging, labeling, and documentation to meet the new IA/IB requirements to ensure compliance and avoid shipping delays.
🔋 Important Safety Note: Lithium batteries are classified as Class 9 Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods for air transport due to their potential for thermal runaway. Only lithium batteries that have passed the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, Section 38.3 test are permitted for transport. Batteries that are defective, recalled for safety reasons, or intended for disposal are forbidden on aircraft.
Summary for Shippers:
- ✅ Ensure all lithium batteries shipped alone comply with PI 965 IA/IB or PI 968 IA/IB
- ✅ Update labeling to meet new size and content requirements
- ✅ Include 24-hour emergency contact number on handling marks
- ✅ Verify UN38.3 test certification for all battery shipments
- ✅ Note that defective or recalled batteries are prohibited on aircraft
For further guidance on compliant lithium battery air transport from China, consult your dangerous goods logistics provider.