Lithium Battery Policy (TSA)

When packing for your up coming trip, be aware of a new policy from TSA.

Effective January 1, 2008 loose lithium batteries are prohibited from
checked baggage.

TSA has provided the following information:

Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) will continue to focus on articles
included on the TSA prohibited items list, particularly Improvised
Explosive Devices(IEDs)and their components. TSA has instructed TSOs that
DOT will work directly with aircraft operators to enforce the lithium
battery restrictions. DOT has launched a public awareness effort in
furtherance this goal. At this point, TSA does not intend to change its
SOP.

If, during normal checked baggage screening, TSOs discover loose batteries
marked "lithium" that are not in the original manufacturer's container or
the battery terminals are not covered, TSOs will treat the item as
hazardous material and notify the aircraft operator in accordance with
established procedure. Checked Baggage TSOs may consider a lithium battery
placed by itself in a plastic bag as adequately protected and therefore
not a hazardous material.

For more information visit: safetravel.dot.gov and click the “What’s New”
link or contact David A. Jones, Sr. Air Safety Specialist, Dangerous Goods
at 901-224-5128.