（Effective from 1 April 2016, lithium ion batteries must be shipped at a State of Charge not exceeding 30% of their design capacity. Our question refers to this issue.）
Q.
According to IATA rules, we understand that effective from 01 April 2016, lithium-ion batteries UN 3480 prepared as a shipment under PI 965 must be shipped at a State of Charge not exceeding 30% of the design capacity. We have the following questions and appreciate your guidance.
(1) Is submission of a certificate that the SoC is less than 30% necessary?
(2) If needed, would a certificate by the manufacturer or shipper suffice?
(3) Is such a certificate necessary for each individual shipment? (31 Jan 16)
A.
Following ICAO decision, IATA has concluded that effective 01 April 2016, UN 3480 Lithium-ion batteries shipped as is will have to be restricted to a State of Charge (SoC) not to exceed 30% of the design capacity. An addendum to IATA DGR 57th Edition had been issued which is posted in the “Topics” column of this website.
(1) A certificate is not required by the regulation however some airlines may require assurance that the SoC is less than 30%. Please contact and ask your airline whether a certificate is necessary.
(2) Such certificate or guarantee letter may be on manufacturer’s or shipper’s stationery,however, please check with the airline.
(3) An airline requesting a certificate will undoubtedly request such with each shipment. Please check with the airline.
Some airlines may decide to totally ban shipments. It is advisable to check with your airline.
(1) Is submission of a certificate that the SoC is less than 30% necessary?
(2) If needed, would a certificate by the manufacturer or shipper suffice?
(3) Is such a certificate necessary for each individual shipment?
Copyright (C) 2003 Kinoshita Aviation Consultants All rights reserved.