The International Air Transport Association (IATA) presented the 2026 editions of its main manuals of cargo and ground operationswith more than a hundred updates that seek to strengthen the security, efficiency and sustainability in global air logistics.
The changes range from the regulation of the transport of dangerous goods and batteries until new guidelines for the animal welfare and attention to passengers with special needs. Together, they reflect the adaptation of the sector to an industry in constant technological and regulatory transformation.
He increase of the 25% in the transportation of lithium batteries Over the last year it promoted a thorough review of the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and Batteries Regulations (BSR). The IATA highlighted that the incidents recorded by overheating of these components in aircraft show the need for more rigorous controls.
The main modifications include load limits further stricta new compliance checklist and the addition of authorized postal operators for the shipment of equipment with lithium batteries. Guidance on the use of portable power banks by passengers and formalized shipping names for hybrid vehicles have also been added, as well as updated regulatory variations for countries such as France, Thailand and the United Kingdom.
These measures seek to anticipate the growth of the battery market and the appearance of hybrid chemicals in the automotive industry, in order to avoid risks and improve traceability in the air logistics chain.
The Regulation on Live Animals (LAR) received a significant update that emphasizes the security and the proper treatment during transportation. In 2024 more than 200,000 shipments of animals non-domestic, which led to the incorporation of new specifications for containers, materials and ventilation.
The 2026 edition also adds specific guidelines for poultry, pangolins and birds of prey, along with standardized training protocols for management personnel. Brazil also officially adopted the LAR, integrating itself into this global framework of standards.
The Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) focuses on improving processes associated with the handling of passengers, baggage and aircraft. Among the most relevant changes are new guidelines for unaccompanied minors, passengers with medical needs or special situations, and revised protocols for the provision of drinking water on board.
Baggage tracking guidelines are also incorporated in line with IATA Resolution 753 and optimized stopover procedures, with the aim of reducing delays and strengthening coordination between airport operators.
The 2026 versions incorporate digital tools that facilitate access and application of the standards in real time. These include the launch of the portal LAR Verifywhich allows airlines, logistics operators and carriers digitally verify compliance regulation of live animals.
Likewise, a complete list of dangerous goods in digital format and an improved version of the tool battery classificationwhich now also includes sodium ion batteries.
These innovations are part of the strategy of digitization of the IATA, aimed at optimizing document management, guarantee traceability and increase the operational efficiency in the air supply chain.
For eight decades, IATA member airlines have been working together with authorities and actors in the sector to create global standards for safe and reliable operations. The new updates reflect advances in technology, regulation and sustainabilityand seek to accompany the transformation that the air transport industry is experiencing around the world.
With the incorporation of these changes, the air logistics strengthens itself in the face of the challenges posed by new energy sourcesthe automation and the growing demands for traceability, consolidating itself as a key link in the security of international trade.
