Lithium batteries have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, found in many electronic devices. However, their use presents significant risks, especially when transporting them by air. That's why these batteries are strictly forbidden in the hold. Let's take a look at the practical reasons behind this ban.
Flammability risks
Visit lithium batteries are notoriously flammable. If short-circuited, they can catch fire or even explode. These incidents are particularly dangerous when they occur in a confined space such as the cargo hold of an aircraft, where it is difficult to intervene quickly to extinguish a fire. The potential damage is far more serious than in a similar incident in the cabin, where crew members may have to wait for the fire to be extinguished. the on-board team can take immediate action.
Surveillance and accessibility
Another important reason for banning lithium batteries from the hold is the difficulty of accessing them in an emergency. Crew members cannot easily reach the hold during flight. On the other hand, incidents in the cabin can be detected more quickly and brought under control with the equipment available on board. This constant monitoring reduces the risks associated with lithium batteries.
Strict regulations
International air transport regulations are strict when it comes to transporting lithium batteries. These rules are designed to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) imposes strict restrictions on the carriage of these batteries in checked baggage. These measures are in place to prevent any risk of fire and to ensure a safe journey.
Fire protection system capabilities
Fire protection systems in aircraft holds are limited. Unlike the cabin, which is equipped with numerous fire extinguishers and other safety devices, options in the hold are more limited. In the event of a fire, automatic systems may not be as effective at extinguishing a lithium battery fire as a crew member would be in the cabin. This technical limitation is one of the reasons why lithium batteries need to be carried in a place where they can be monitored and extinguished quickly.
Previous incidents
Several past incidents have highlighted the dangers of carrying lithium batteries in the hold. Fires and explosions have been reported, causing considerable damage and jeopardizing flight safety. These incidents have led to additional precautionary measures, making the hold an unsuitable place for these batteries.
List of practical reasons
| Reason | Description |
| Flammability risk | Batteries can catch fire if short-circuited. |
| Limited accessibility | Difficult to access a battery in the hold in case of emergency. |
| Regulations | ICAO safety restrictions. |
| Fire protection | The systems in the hold are less efficient than those in the cabin. |
| Previous incidents | Fire and explosion history. |
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