Photo: Shutterstock The International Air Transport Association has released updated 2027 editions of key manuals covering air cargo and ground operations, introducing new requirements and guidance to keep aviation standards aligned with technological and regulatory changes.
Among the most significant updates are revisions to the Dangerous Goods Regulations, including clearer packaging instructions and new requirements covering spare batteries and power banks. The rules for lithium battery-powered mobility aids have also been updated, with additional obligations for operators handling devices with capacities above 300Wh.
The Battery Shipping Regulations have been revised to reflect the growing range of battery technologies being transported by air.
The 2027 edition introduces provisions for hybrid batteries containing both lithium-ion and sodium-ion cells and updates packing instructions for sodium-ion and prototype batteries. It also clarifies when certain shipments are excluded from the existing four-cell and two-battery limit.
New requirements also specify that battery marks must appear on the same package surface as other applicable hazard labels, helping improve the visibility of safety information during cargo handling.
The Live Animals Regulations have received several updates as well. Specific pathogen-free laboratory animals have been added to the species listings, while container requirements now use more consistent terminology and metric measurements. IATA has also updated procedures for cleaning and disinfecting aircraft cargo compartments.
A Portuguese language version of the Live Animals Regulations is now available following Brazil's adoption of the standards.
Ground operations are also becoming more technology-focused. The updated Airport Handling Manual introduces guidance for biometric handling in contactless travel, including considerations around touchpoints, privacy and ethical issues. It also contains expanded provisions covering autonomous ground service equipment operating near aircraft.
IATA is placing particular emphasis on digital tools connected to its manuals. These systems are designed to bring industry standards closer to the processes where decisions are made, with artificial intelligence expected to play an increasingly important role.
Among the tools highlighted are LAR Verify for automated compliance checks on live animal shipments and eBattery Shipping Regulations, which includes new interactive classification scenarios. DG Digital allows users to create and manage Shipper's Declarations for Dangerous Goods.
Digital Load Verification is another major development. IATA says the system can reduce loading errors by more than 80% and loading-related delays by up to 30%.
Frederic Leger, IATA's Senior Vice President of Products and Services, said the 2027 revisions reflect changes in technology, regulation and customer needs, with digital integration expected to make airline cargo and ground operations safer and more efficient.