IATA’s 2026 manuals introduce nearly 100 updates on batteries, live animals, ground ops, and digital tools to enhance safety standards.
In a sweeping update aimed at strengthening global aviation safety, efficiency, and compliance, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released the 2026 editions of its key cargo and ground operations manuals, introducing close to 100 major changes across regulations governing dangerous goods, live animals, ground handling, and digital compliance tools.
The revisions reflect rapid advancements in technology, emerging chemistries in battery manufacturing, increased passenger mobility needs, and growing global cargo demand.
Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) & Battery Shipping Regulations (BSR)
Battery-related revisions dominate the 2026 updates. With the volume of lithium batteries shipped by air rising by 25% year-on-year and several recent onboard incidents involving overheating power banks, IATA has strengthened compliance requirements.
Key DGR updates include:
- Official shipping names for hybrid-powered vehicles
- New recommendations for passengers carrying power banks and spare batteries
- Updated variations for Thailand, France, and the UK
- Standardized text on 290 operator variations
- Additional guidance on mandatory safety data sheets
- New Appendix H, outlining regulatory expectations for 2027
Key BSR updates include:
- Stricter charge limits for lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment
- A new shipper compliance checklist
- More designated postal operators authorized to accept lithium-battery-embedded equipment
Hybrid vehicle battery chemistries, now common in automotive cargo, were a key driver of these revisions.
Live Animals Regulations (LAR)
With over 200,000 non-domestic animals transported in 2024, IATA has prioritised animal welfare. The 2026 LAR introduces:
- Competency-based training protocols for transit attendants
- Improved container materials and ventilation standards
- Guidelines for specific species, including poultry, pangolins, hooded raptors, and birds of prey
- The formal inclusion of Brazil, which adopts the LAR in 2025
These changes aim to ensure humane care and safe transport conditions across global borders.
IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM)
The 2026 IGOM updates focus on safety and operational efficiency, especially for passengers requiring additional support.
Key highlights:
- New handling guidelines for unaccompanied minors, medical-assistance passengers, and unruly or inadmissible travelers
- Baggage tracking aligned with IATA Resolution 753
- Updated potable water procedures, covering preparation, storage, and transport
- Revised aircraft turnaround protocols
These measures aim to optimise airport interaction while enhancing passenger experience.
Digital Enhancements
To support faster decision-making, IATA has rolled out powerful digital tools, including:
- LAR Verify Online Portal for automated compliance checking
- A digital directory of all classified dangerous goods
- An upgraded battery classification tool featuring sodium-ion battery support
Cargo professionals can now access, audit, and validate rules with improved speed and accuracy.
Industry Perspective
Commenting on the release, Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice President of Products and Services, said:
“Global standards have made flying safe and reliable. This year’s updates reflect advancements in technology, digitalisation, regulation, and customer needs that are critical for safer, more efficient, and increasingly sustainable operations.”
With aviation evolving rapidly, IATA’s latest manuals are expected to serve as the backbone for compliance, sustainability, and safety across cargo, ground handling, and animal logistics in 2026 and beyond.
Source: IATA
