The International Co-ordination Council of Aerospace Industry Associations, which represents Boeing and Airbus among other manufacturers, is requesting stricter packaging and handling regulations for batteries being shipped on freighters. FAA tests revealed that lithium batteries discharge explosive gases when they overheat or short-circuit, the build-up of which can lead to explosions or fires. Tens of thousands of batteries are frequently packed and shipped in one shipping container, yet FAA tests have indicated that an aircraft's fire protection system would be unable to suppress or extinguish a fire that results from a large quantity of batteries like this. Ultimately, the carriage of lithium batteries in aircraft cargo compartments was deemed an unacceptable risk to the industry.
Early this year, Delta and United Airlines both declared they will no longer accept shipments of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. The call for a ban will put pressure on all carriers to refuse to transport this high-risk cargo, or else they risk appearing unconcerned about the safety of their passengers and crew.
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Lithium batteries to be banned from air cargo
Aircraft manufacturers have called for a ban on the bulk shipments of lithium batteries on cargo and passenger aircraft.
