Adapting to New Lithium Battery Regulations in Air Transport: What You Need to Know

Introduction to New Regulatory Changes
The world of dangerous goods transportation is continually evolving, particularly in the realm of lithium battery shipments by air. A recent meeting of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has led to significant changes, introducing a State of Charge (SoC) requirement for more categories of lithium-ion batteries during air transport.

Understanding the New SoC Requirements
The new regulation primarily affects lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment, such as devices that have their batteries in the same box. This change, effective from January 2026, mandates that these batteries must have a SoC not exceeding 30%, adding complexity to shipping processes and necessitating adjustments in pre-shipping protocols. Additionally, certain medical and military equipment will be subject to these requirements, considering the protective nature of the equipment encasing the batteries.

Implications for Shippers and the Industry
This change poses new challenges for shippers, who must now ensure batteries comply with the SoC limit, impacting both logistics and costs. The regulation also opens the door for shippers to adapt their processes, possibly shifting to transport batteries contained in equipment to bypass the 'packed with' categorization.

Sodium Ion Batteries: The Emerging Alternative
Parallel to these developments, the introduction of UN numbers for Sodium ion batteries in the 2024 modal regulations signals a growing interest in alternative battery technologies. These batteries present different challenges and benefits compared to lithium-ion batteries, potentially offering safer transportation options and cost-effective solutions for specific applications.

Preparing for the Transition: TSA's Role
In this dynamic regulatory landscape, staying informed and prepared is crucial. Training and certification play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance and safety. TSA’s specialised courses, such as the 'Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Air - Certification' and 'Lithium Batteries' training, are designed to equip industry professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate these changes. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from the basics of dangerous goods regulations to specific guidelines for handling and transporting lithium and sodium ion batteries.

Conclusion: Embracing Change with Expertise
As regulations evolve, TSA’s training courses offer invaluable resources for professionals in the dangerous goods transportation sector, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the new challenges and maintain safety standards in air transport.

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