Safety alert issued after lithium battery incidents

• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new safety alert to US airlines regarding the increasing risks posed by lithium-ion batteries in passenger cabins.
• The alert highlights that batteries in overhead bins or carry-on luggage are difficult to monitor, potentially delaying the detection of thermal runaway and firefighting efforts.
• This year, there have been 50 reported incidents of lithium-ion batteries emitting smoke, catching fire, or overheating on flights, some leading to diversions and passenger injuries.
• The FAA recommends airlines enhance risk mitigation strategies, including improved passenger and crew communication, better firefighting procedures, and additional emergency training.
• Beyond the alert, the FAA has initiated enforcement measures.

IN FULL

FAA issues new warning over flying with lithium batteries after dozens of incidents in August