Background: Growing danger from modern technology<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lithium batteries have become an integral part of our everyday lives. Whether in Smartphone<\/strong>, Laptop<\/strong>, in electronic tools<\/strong>, Drones<\/strong> or E-cigarettes<\/strong> - The powerful energy storage devices can be found in almost all portable electronic devices: Portable Electronic Devices<\/strong>PEDs). In air transport in particular, the number of these devices per passenger is continuously increasing, as is the energy density of the cells used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At the same time, there are more and more reports of incidents: Batteries catch fire, emit dangerous fumes or explode. Even major airlines have already had to make stopovers because an overheated battery in the cabin started a fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The new EASA publication updates previous documents on lithium batteries and standardises several older bulletins that have since been withdrawn. The focus is on<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not only airlines, but also Private pilots<\/strong>, Charter operator<\/strong>, Flying schools<\/strong> and Maintenance personnel<\/strong> are required to familiarise themselves with the risks and the applicable transport regulations. Although stricter requirements apply to commercial air transport in accordance with ICAO\/IATA than to general aviation, it is important to familiarise yourself with the risks and applicable transport regulations. Sensitivity in handling lithium batteries, even in small aircraft, helicopters or UL applications<\/strong> mandatory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Particularly relevant for smaller aircraft:<\/p>\n\n\n\n With its recommendation, EASA is following the line of the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation)<\/strong>which regularly publishes updates on air transport regulations. The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)<\/strong> contain extensive rules for the transport of lithium batteries by air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Aircraft manufacturers, especially in business aviation and air taxis, are also obliged to comply, Fire-retardant devices<\/strong> must be taken into account when planning the cabin - for self-charging devices during the flight, for example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The EASA urges Caution and discipline when handling lithium batteries<\/strong> in air traffic. Not every risk can be eliminated through regulation - but the combination of technical reconnaissance<\/strong>, practical recommendations<\/strong> and Strict control<\/strong> can help to minimise the risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pilots, operators and passengers<\/strong> should be aware of their responsibility - and especially in the cockpit or passenger compartment careful handling<\/strong>, Safe storage<\/strong> and Minimum charge states<\/strong> pay attention. Lithium technology has many advantages - but from a safety point of view, it belongs in trained hands, especially at lofty heights.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat is new in the EASA recommendation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Powerbanks are not regarded as PEDs, but as Spare batteries<\/strong> - and are subject to stricter regulations. Even powerful devices such as Hoverboards<\/strong>, Scooter<\/strong> and some Industrial or military drones<\/strong> may sometimes not be transported at all.<\/li>\n\n\n\n\n
The danger arises when the chemical energy of the battery not degraded in a controlled manner<\/strong>but in a so-called Thermal run-through<\/strong> (thermal runaway) is suddenly released - with potentially catastrophic consequences: Heat development, fires, risk of explosion and toxic gases.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nSignificance for pilots, airlines and general aviation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Regulatory framework<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Conclusion: Technological responsibility meets safety awareness<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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