9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual

Post originally Published May 13, 2024 || Last Updated May 14, 2024

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9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Lithium Battery Transport Regulations Overhaul


The 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual has introduced significant updates to the regulations governing the transport of lithium batteries.

Effective January 2022, IATA now requires the segregation of lithium batteries during transportation, regardless of their size.

The updated manual also introduces stricter markings for lithium batteries, including a new label indicating the battery's lithium content.

Additionally, IATA is now requiring companies to provide detailed information about the batteries they are transporting, including their chemistry, voltage, and capacity.

These revisions aim to enhance the safety of lithium battery transport and mitigate the risks associated with damaged or improperly packaged batteries.

The revised IATA regulations aim to enhance the safety of lithium battery transport, as these batteries pose a significant risk to air travel if damaged or improperly packaged.

The Watthour rating of a lithium cell or battery is calculated by multiplying the rated capacity in ampere-hours by the nominal voltage, providing a crucial metric for assessing the battery's energy density.

Equipment with installed spillable batteries must now be packed to maintain the battery's orientation, or the battery must be removed entirely, reducing the potential for leaks during transport.

The IATA has released a comprehensive Lithium Battery Guidance Document for 2022, providing shippers with detailed information on the updated requirements for the transport of lithium batteries under the 63rd Edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.

The new regulations introduce stricter markings for lithium batteries, including a new label indicating the battery's lithium content, improving the identification and handling of these potentially hazardous goods.

IATA now requires companies to provide detailed information about the batteries they are transporting, including their chemistry, voltage, and capacity, enabling better risk assessment and safer handling procedures.

What else is in this post?

  1. 9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Lithium Battery Transport Regulations Overhaul
  2. 9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Comprehensive Cargo Handling Updates
  3. 9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Revamped Perishable Goods Handling Guidelines
  4. 9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Enhanced Live Animal Transport Protocols
  5. 9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Operational Risk Assessment Integration
  6. 9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Airport Infrastructure Standards Revision

9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Comprehensive Cargo Handling Updates


The 2022 edition of the IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM) includes significant updates to the industry's cargo handling standards and procedures.

The manual reflects the industry's ongoing commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and compliance in cargo operations.

The updated AHM incorporates revised industry standards, country-specific regulations, and operator variations related to the transportation of goods by air.

Key areas of focus include the handling of live animals, perishable cargo, temperature-controlled shipments, operational risk assessment, and ground handling training.

These updates aim to ensure the safe and secure movement of cargo while aligning with the latest regulatory requirements across different markets.

The IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM) continues to serve as a comprehensive resource for cargo operators, providing detailed guidance on various aspects of air cargo transportation.

The 2022 revisions to the AHM and ICHM demonstrate the industry's proactive approach to enhancing cargo handling practices and maintaining high standards of safety and compliance.

The 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM) incorporates comprehensive updates to the cargo handling industry standards, reflecting the sector's commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and compliance.

The updated manual includes revised country-specific regulations and operator variations, serving as a comprehensive repository of essential information for cargo operators.

The 2022 updates to the AHM cover a wide range of topics, including changes to regulations related to live animals, perishable cargo, temperature-controlled cargo, operational risk assessment, and ground handling training and procedures.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM) is now more closely aligned with the AHM, providing a unified source of information for cargo operations.

The updated AHM emphasizes the importance of cargo tracking, with enhanced guidance on procedures to improve the visibility and traceability of shipments.

The 2022 manual introduces revised protocols for the handling of lithium batteries, including stricter segregation requirements and new labeling standards to mitigate the risks associated with these potentially hazardous goods.

The AHM's updated guidance on the transportation of perishable goods, such as pharmaceuticals and vaccines, aims to ensure the quality and integrity of temperature-sensitive cargo during the supply chain.

9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Revamped Perishable Goods Handling Guidelines


9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual

The 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual has introduced essential updates to the Perishable Cargo Regulations manual, providing comprehensive guidance on the handling and transportation of temperature-sensitive products.

The revised manual, endorsed by the IATA Live Animals and Perishables Board, emphasizes the importance of effective packaging and collaboration to ensure the quality and integrity of perishable cargo during air transport.

As global demand for fresh and perishable goods continues to grow, the updated Perishable Cargo Regulations manual serves as a crucial resource for the industry.

The new guidelines mandate the use of specialized packaging materials that can maintain internal temperatures even as external conditions fluctuate during air transport.

IATA has introduced a requirement for real-time temperature monitoring of perishable shipments, using advanced sensors and data logging devices to ensure the cold chain is maintained.

The manual now recommends the use of phase change materials, such as eutectic plates, to provide passive cooling for perishable goods, reducing the need for energy-intensive active refrigeration.

Detailed protocols have been established for the handling of high-value perishable products, like certain pharmaceuticals and exotic fruits, which require extra care and expedited processing.

IATA has collaborated with leading research institutions to develop science-based time-temperature thresholds for different categories of perishable goods, optimizing the balance between quality and shelf life.

The updated guidelines mandate the segregation of different perishable commodities, such as meats, dairy, and produce, to prevent cross-contamination and maintain product integrity.

Stringent new training requirements have been introduced for ground handling personnel to ensure they are equipped to handle perishable goods with the utmost care and efficiency.

The manual now recommends the use of advanced data analytics and machine learning to predict and mitigate the risks of temperature excursions during the transportation of perishable cargo.

9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Enhanced Live Animal Transport Protocols


The 2022 edition of the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) manual has introduced essential updates to ensure the safe and humane transportation of live animals by air.

The manual covers aspects such as animal welfare, classification, labeling, marking, packing, handling, loading, and documentary requirements to help airlines, freight forwarders, and animal handlers transport live animals in good health.

The IATA Live Animals and Perishables Board (LAPB) plays a crucial role in coordinating the transportation of live animals, providing key input to the airline industry on issues such as animal welfare, identification, and animal behavior based on modern science.

The IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR) manual now includes detailed guidelines on the safe evacuation and transportation of pet cats and dogs during times of crisis, ensuring their welfare during emergency relocation with their owners.

The 2022 edition of the LAR manual introduces new requirements for the labeling and marking of live animal containers, including the use of IATA-approved pictograms and handling instructions to aid in the identification and proper handling of these shipments.

Airlines are now mandated to provide specialized training for their ground handling staff on the unique behavioral characteristics and handling needs of different animal species, reducing the risk of injury or distress during transport.

The updated LAR manual recommends the use of real-time monitoring devices, such as temperature sensors and GPS trackers, to ensure constant surveillance of live animal shipments throughout the transportation process.

IATA has established a new classification system for live animals, grouping them into categories based on factors like size, temperament, and transport requirements, enabling more tailored handling protocols.

The 2022 LAR manual includes revised guidelines for the design and construction of live animal containers, ensuring they provide adequate ventilation, space, and structural integrity to withstand the rigors of air transport.

Airlines are now required to maintain detailed records of all live animal shipments, including information on the species, origin, destination, and any incidents or deviations during transport, improving traceability and accountability.

The updated LAR manual introduces a new "Live Animal Transport Checklist" to be completed by both shippers and air carriers, ensuring all necessary preparations and documentation are in place before departure.

IATA has collaborated with leading veterinary organizations to develop specific handling protocols for the air transport of exotic and endangered species, ensuring their safe passage while adhering to international conservation regulations.

9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Operational Risk Assessment Integration


The 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual incorporates guidance on operational risk assessment (ORA) and mitigation strategies, following an amendment to ICAO Annex 6.

The IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM) now requires an ORA to be carried out on all items carried in cargo compartments, ensuring a comprehensive risk assessment approach across air cargo operations.

The 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM) now requires an Operational Risk Assessment (ORA) to be carried out on all items carried in cargo compartments, following an amendment to ICAO Annex

The IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) has expanded its guidance on aviation security management, including detailed requirements for accountabilities, risk assessment, and communication protocols.

IATA has introduced revised protocols for the handling of lithium batteries, mandating stricter segregation requirements and new labeling standards to mitigate the risks associated with these potentially hazardous goods.

The updated AHM emphasizes the importance of cargo tracking, with enhanced guidance on procedures to improve the visibility and traceability of shipments throughout the supply chain.

IATA has collaborated with leading research institutions to develop science-based time-temperature thresholds for different categories of perishable goods, optimizing the balance between quality and shelf life.

The AHM now recommends the use of advanced data analytics and machine learning to predict and mitigate the risks of temperature excursions during the transportation of perishable cargo.

Airlines are now required to maintain detailed records of all live animal shipments, including information on the species, origin, destination, and any incidents or deviations during transport, improving traceability and accountability.

The updated LAR manual introduces a new "Live Animal Transport Checklist" to be completed by both shippers and air carriers, ensuring all necessary preparations and documentation are in place before departure.

IATA has collaborated with leading veterinary organizations to develop specific handling protocols for the air transport of exotic and endangered species, ensuring their safe passage while adhering to international conservation regulations.

The 2022 edition of the IATA Airport Handling Manual incorporates comprehensive updates to the cargo handling industry standards, reflecting the sector's commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and compliance.

9 Essential Updates in the 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual - Airport Infrastructure Standards Revision


The 2022 edition of the IATA Airport Handling Manual includes essential updates and revisions to the Airport Infrastructure Standards, focusing on improving airport safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Key updates include the incorporation of new technologies, such as digitalized navigation systems, to enhance airport operations, as well as a emphasis on environmentally-friendly practices like energy-efficient lighting and waste reduction programs.

The 2022 IATA Airport Handling Manual has introduced a new requirement for airports to implement real-time temperature monitoring systems for perishable cargo shipments, ensuring the cold chain is maintained throughout the transportation process.

The revised Airport Infrastructure Standards now mandate the use of specialized packaging materials that can maintain internal temperatures even as external conditions fluctuate during air transport, improving the handling of temperature-sensitive goods.

IATA has collaborated with leading research institutions to develop science-based time-temperature thresholds for different categories of perishable goods, optimizing the balance between product quality and shelf life.

The updated standards prioritize the use of phase change materials, such as eutectic plates, to provide passive cooling for perishable goods, reducing the need for energy-intensive active refrigeration systems.

The Airport Infrastructure Standards now require the segregation of different perishable commodities, such as meats, dairy, and produce, to prevent cross-contamination and maintain the integrity of each product during air transport.

IATA has introduced a new classification system for live animals, grouping them into categories based on factors like size, temperament, and transport requirements, enabling more tailored handling protocols.

The revised standards mandate the use of real-time monitoring devices, such as temperature sensors and GPS trackers, to ensure constant surveillance of live animal shipments throughout the transportation process.

The Airport Infrastructure Standards now include detailed guidelines on the safe evacuation and transportation of pet cats and dogs during times of crisis, ensuring their welfare during emergency relocation with their owners.

IATA has collaborated with leading veterinary organizations to develop specific handling protocols for the air transport of exotic and endangered species, ensuring their safe passage while adhering to international conservation regulations.

The 2022 Airport Infrastructure Standards emphasize the importance of operational risk assessment (ORA) in cargo operations, requiring a comprehensive risk evaluation for all items carried in cargo compartments.

The updated standards recommend the use of advanced data analytics and machine learning to predict and mitigate the risks of temperature excursions during the transportation of perishable cargo, improving supply chain efficiency and product quality.

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