Lithium ion battery in aircraft

Can aircraft fly lithium-ion batteries?

This technology has further evolved and FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) installations for lithium-ion engine-start batteries on various aircraft will be a reality in the near future, and the list of aircraft flying lithium-ion batteries is sure to grow rapidly over the coming years.

How many lithium batteries can you carry on a plane?

These limits allow for nearly all types of lithium batteries used by the average person in their electronic devices. With airline approval, passengers may also carry up to two spare larger lithium ion batteries (101–160 Wh) or Lithium metal batteries (2-8 grams).

What type of batteries do aircraft use?

Notably, the heavier batteries which are used today on aircraft are typically quite low voltage – 28Vdc – and their low energy density means that they are mainly used to start the APU and for emergencies.

What are lithium ion batteries used for?

Lithium-ion batteries have been a significant part of aviation for the past decade. Applications have been used in systems such as avionics backup power supplies, emergency lighting, ELTs, powering auxiliary equipment (crew cabin phones, cabin doors), uninterrupted power systems (UPS), and engine start batteries for fighter jets and drones.

Where can I find information about transporting lithium batteries by air?

For additional air carrier resources see our OperateSafe Resources. Lithium Battery Questions? For questions about transporting lithium batteries by air you may contact the FAA Office of Hazardous Materials Safety via e-mail at [email protected] or via voice message at 405-954-0088.

How many miles can a lithium ion battery fly?

But the energy density of new lithium ion batteries improves between 5 and 7 percent annually, doubling about every seven years. That means, if we start development today on a 19-, 30-, 60-passenger aircraft, it will be flying 1,300 to 1,500 miles by 2032.