Portable electronic devices containing non-spillable batteries PLUS Batteries spare/loose 

In previous pages we documented two types of batteries: fuel cells and lithium batteries.

However, there are many other types of batteries that power portable electronic devices. These batteries can be made from a variety of chemical compounds such as Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH), Alkaline and Nickel Cadmium (NiCad). Some of the more common small batteries for use in portable devices include AAA, AA, C, and 9V, just to name a few. The IATA Table 2.3.A extract below refers to the more common consumer-type batteries that you may be familiar with. These kinds of small consumer batteries may still contain a small percentage of lithium.

All types of batteries within portable electronic devices can pose a fire hazard during flight. Spare or loose batteries also pose a risk if not correctly insulated.

Above are some example of some of the different sizes of batteries. Always purchase reputable brands of batteries.

1. Must meet the requirements of Special Provision A67 (summarised below)
2. Must be 12 V or less
3. Must be 100 Wh or less 

Spare batteries can be defined as batteries not installed in a device. A maximum of two (2) non-spillable spare batteries meeting the criteria above can travel as long as they are insulated to ensure there is no possibility of short-circuiting. 

Insulation can be achieved if the two spare batteries are retained in the manufacturer's original packaging. If not in the original package, they must be insulated by placing electrical tape across the terminals, or by some other similar means, such as placing each battery in a separate, sealed bag. Further details can be found in Section 2.3.5.12 of the IATA DGR.

Smart bags containing powerbank/batteries/powerpacks for charging mobile devices such as laptops, phones etc are also considered to be spare batteries. We have discussed smart bags on page 18 of this Module but in summary they are to be treated as follows:

- smart bags with non-removable batteries/powerbanks of 0.3 g or less lithium metal or 2.7 Wh or less may be checked in or carried in the cabin if they comply with the Operator's baggage restrictions;

- smart bags with removable batteries of less than 0.3. g lithium metal or 2.7 Wh can be checked in or carried in the cabin. If the the battery/power bank is removable and the bag is being checked in, the powerbank/battery must be removed and carried in the cabin;

- if the powerbank/battery is more than 0.3 g lithium metal or 2.7 Wh and is non-removable, then the smart bag is totally FORBIDDEN for travel. It cannot go in the cabin or as checked baggage.

As always, check the Operator's Dangerous Goods Manual for specific variations.

Now let's take a look at the Table 2.3.A extracts covering non-spillable and spare/loose batteries.

Portable electronic devices containing non-spillable batteries

Please note the following from the table above:

Special Provision A67 (summary)

 In the IATA Table 2.3.A above, you can see that Special Provision A67 covers portable electronic devices containing non-spillable batteries. This Special Provision can be simplified as follows:

• At 55º Celcius, the electrolyte contained inside the battery will not be able to escape from the battery if the casing is cracked or ruptured
• Devices containing batteries must be protected against unintential activation

Special Provisions can be found in Section 4 of the IATA DGR.  Please refer to a current copy of the IATA DGR for expanded instructions when dealing with items or articles covered by a Special Provision.

Batteries, spare/loose, including lithium metal or lithium ion cells or batteries for portable electronic devices

Please note the following from the table above:

In this instance, a maximum of 20 spare batteries meeting the criteria above may be carried in the cabin. Insulation can be achieved if the spare batteries are retained in the manurfacturer's original packaging. If not in the original package, they must be insulated by placing electrical tape across the terminals, or by some other similar means such as placing each battery in a separate, sealed bag.

Where spare batteries are permitted for travel, they must travel in carry-on baggage only. 

Please Note:

Check-in staff must always be ask the passenger, "Are you carrying any Dangerous Goods or any spare batteries?". Further questioning may be required depending on the passenger and what hidden dangerous goods you believe they may be carrying.

Always refer to the Operator's Dangerous Good Manual for specific Airline variations to the above information!