IATA Special Provision A99 permits the air transport of large lithium and sodium-ion cells and batteries weighing more than 35 kg under specific conditions. While these batteries exceed the normal package limits, they may still be transported by cargo aircraft with the required approvals.
When Does A99 Apply?
Special Provision A99 applies to:
UN 3090 – Lithium Metal Batteries
UN 3091 – Lithium Metal Batteries Contained In or Packed With Equipment
UN 3480 – Lithium Ion Batteries
UN 3481 – Lithium Ion Batteries Contained In or Packed With Equipment
UN 3551 – Sodium-Ion Batteries
UN 3552 – Sodium-Ion Batteries Contained In or Packed With Equipment
Key Requirements
To ship under A99:
- The battery must meet all other requirements of Section I of the applicable IATA Packing Instruction.
- Approval must be obtained from the Competent Authority of both the State of Origin and the State of the Operator.
- The shipment must comply with Packing Instruction 974 (PI 974) in the ICAO Technical Instructions.
- The Shipper's Declaration must show Packing Instruction 974.
Need Help?
DG Online Training provides practical IATA Dangerous Goods training covering lithium battery shipping requirements, documentation, Special Provisions, and compliance to help ensure your shipments meet the latest IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.