Passenger and Crew Awareness on the Risks of Lithium Batteries
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Aircraft operators should ensure that all relevant personnel are aware of lithium battery restrictions and that passengers receive clear information and acknowledge these rules at check-in. Operators and ground handlers must prohibit e-cigarettes and spare lithium batteries in checked baggage and ensure proper packaging and handling of large portable electronic devices. Crew members must be trained on lithium battery fire characteristics and firefighting procedures, and suitable firefighting equipment must be available on board. These recommendations are effective immediately upon publication, with a compliance deadline of 26 August 2023 for certain cargo compartment upgrades referenced in the bulletin.
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin No. 2025-03 is a guidance document addressing passenger and crew awareness on the risks associated with lithium batteries carried on commercial passenger aircraft. It applies to aircraft operators, aerodrome operators, ground handling service providers, and National Competent Authorities. The bulletin highlights the dangers posed by portable electronic devices and transportation devices powered by lithium batteries, including e-cigarettes and power banks, and provides recommendations to mitigate these risks during air operations.
What changed
This new Safety Information Bulletin introduces recommendations for improving passenger awareness and crew training regarding lithium battery carriage restrictions and fire risks. It consolidates previous EASA SIBs on lithium batteries by withdrawing several older bulletins and emphasizes the importance of carrying lithium battery-powered devices in the cabin rather than in checked baggage. It also reinforces compliance with existing regulations and ICAO Technical Instructions concerning lithium battery transport.
Why it matters
The bulletin is important for aviation professionals because lithium battery fires pose significant safety risks that can be difficult to control, especially in cargo compartments. Operators and ground handlers must ensure proper communication and enforcement of lithium battery carriage restrictions to prevent incidents. Enhanced crew training and appropriate firefighting equipment are critical to managing potential in-flight lithium battery fires, thereby improving overall flight safety and regulatory compliance.
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