Which regulatory frameworks govern air shipments of lithium batteries in the FedEx program?

• A. IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and ICAO Technical Instructions, supplemented by FedEx hazmat policies.
• B. US DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations only.
• C. Maritime IMO SOLAS rules.
• D. FedEx internal shipping guidelines only.

Answer: (A)

Air shipments of lithium batteries are governed by internationally recognized aviation safety rules, with the main framework being the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and the ICAO Technical Instructions. These two sets of rules establish how lithium batteries must be classified, packaged, labeled, documented, and handled for air transport, taking into account the different battery types (lithium-ion, lithium metal), their state of charge, allowable packaging, and carrier-specific procedures. FedEx augments these requirements with its hazmat policies, which translate the international rules into the carrier’s specific acceptance criteria, handling steps, and internal processes to ensure consistent, safe operation across the network.

While US DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations are important for hazmat shipments within the United States and can apply to certain aspects of shipping, they do not replace the international air transport rules. Maritime SOLAS rules govern ships, not aircraft, so they’re not applicable here. FedEx internal guidelines alone cannot cover the international and cross-border compliance required for air shipments; they must align with IATA/ICAO and the carrier’s published hazmat policies.