Horizon Europe Project: Detection of Lithium Batteries Using Security Screening Equipment

Lithium batteries, whether or not contained in equipment, are one of the main causes of the incidents reported in the cabin. The main risks are fire and smoke, which can lead to catastrophic events. Certain restrictions apply to the carriage by passengers of lithium metal and lithium ion batteries in accordance to ICAO Annex 18 and the ICAO Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods (ICAO Doc. 9284). Notwithstanding, that screeners shall primarily focus their attention on identification of prohibited items from a security perspective, there is a need to investigate possible technical, operational and regulatory solutions to support safety requirements (in particular detection of lithium batteries not transported in line with applicable safety rules) without affecting the performance of screening operations.