Cell Phone Lithium Batteries Limited on Airplanes

By Editor Wireless and Mobile News on December 31, 2007 1:43 PM

Beginning January 1, airline passengers will no longer be allowed to pack loose lithium batteries in checked luggage, under new transportation laws aimed at reducing the risk of battery fires.

Passengers are permitted to carry up to two spare extended-life rechargeable lithium batteries in carry-on bags as long as they are in their original packaging or in a plastic zipper bag, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

Checked bags can contain batteries already installed in gadgets such as cell phones, cameras or laptop computers, according to the DOT.

Lithium batteries are considered hazardous materials because they can overheat and ignite in certain conditions. Safety testing conducted by the FAA found that current aircraft cargo fire suppression system would not be capable of suppressing a fire if a shipment of non-rechargeable lithium batteries were ignited in flight.

“This rule protects the passenger,” said Lynne Osmus, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assistant administrator for security and hazardous materials. “It’s one more step for safety. It’s the right thing to do and the right time to do it.”

In addition to the new rule, PHMSA is working with the FAA, the National Transportation Safety Board, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the battery and airline industries, airline employee organizations, testing laboratories, and the emergency response communities to increase public awareness about battery-related risks and developments. These useful safety tips are highlighted at the public website: http://safetravel.dot.gov.