IATADGR version 64 (2023) and ICAOTI versions 2023 – 2024 have once again adjusted the air transport rules of various dangerous goods. The new rules will be implemented on January 1, 2023. The main changes related to the 64th edition of 2023 revision involving aviation transportation of lithium batteries include:

Revise 3.9.2.6.1 to remove the requirement for a test summary when button cells are shipped when installed in equipment;

Add special clause A154 requirements to UN3171 Battery-powered vehicle;

A154: It is prohibited to transport lithium batteries that the manufacturer considers to be defective in safety, or batteries that are damaged that could cause potential heat, fire, or short circuits (e.g., cells or batteries recalled by the manufacturer for safety reasons or that cannot be diagnosed as damaged or defective prior to shipment).

Revision PI952: When the lithium battery installed in a vehicle is damaged or defective, the vehicle is prohibited from being transported. When approved by the relevant authorities of the country of origin and the country where the operator is located, trial-production or low-production batteries and battery cells can be transported by cargo aircraft.

Revision of PI965 and PI968: Require that each package shipped in accordance with Clause IB must withstand a stacking test of 3 meters;

Revision of PI966/PI967/PI969/PI970: Amend clause II to specify that when a package is placed in an Overpack, the package must be secured in the Overpack and the intended function of each package must not be impaired by the Overpack, which is consistent with the general requirements specified in 5.0.1.5;

Modify the lithium battery operation label and cancel the requirement to display the telephone number on the label. The transition period will be before December 31, 2026, before which time the existing lithium battery operation label can continue to be used.

Stacking test requirements:

Number of test samples: 3 test samples for each design type and each manufacturer;

Test Method: Apply a force to the top surface of the test specimen, the secondary force being equivalent to the total weight of the same number of packaging compartments that may be stacked on top of it during transportation. The minimum stacking height including test samples shall be 3m and the test time shall be 24 hours;

Criteria for passing the test: The test sample shall not leak. For compliant or combination packages, no contained substance shall be exposed from the inner receptacle and inner packaging. Test samples shall not show damage that may adversely affect transportation safety, or deformation that may reduce their strength or cause unstable stacking. Prior to evaluation, plastic packaging should be cooled to ambient temperature.