Flag carrier Philippine Airlines has joined other international carriers in banning the shipment of lithium ion batteries due to the potential fire hazards posed by such type of cargo. Aviation experts have blamed lithium batteries for a number of mid-flight fire that resulted to crashes of cargo aircraft in recent years.

PAL president and CEO Jaime J. Bautista said: “Safety is the cornerstone of our operations. We mitigate risks as we assure our passengers of our commitment to safety.”

Shipment of lithium ion and lithium metal batteries packed with or contained in equipment are exempted from the suspension of carriage as cargo provided the regulatory requirements on packaging and labelling are complied with.

Lithium-ion batteries (rechargeable), used in consumer electronics, are generally found in mobile phones, laptop computers, while lithium metal batteries (non-rechargeable) are generally used to power devices such as watches, calculators and temperature data loggers.

Passengers are also advised to hand carry their equipment powered by lithium batteries together with their spare batteries. Carriage of spare lithium batteries will be limited.

PAL reminds the public that recalled or damaged batteries are not allowed as carry-on, checked baggage or cargo shipment.