DOT Issues Lithium Battery Shipping Advisory

Responding to concerns raised by the Air Line Pilots Association, the US Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a safety advisory covering shipment of lithium batteries in cargo-only and passenger aircraft.

The advisory warned that battery-caused fires in aircraft “can result in catastrophic events presenting unique challenges not encountered in other transport modes.”

The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) had asked the DOT to prohibit shipments of lithium batteries until new regulations are in place.

"This advisory puts all shippers on notice that noncompliance with the safety regulations is not acceptable,” said Ray LaHood, DOT secretary. “I have asked the department's enforcement personnel to increase their inspections and step up enforcement where necessary."

See:

Editorial: Not On My Airplane

Pilots Seek Limits On Battery Shipments

US Battery Shipping Regulations In Place