A Vietnam Airlines plane in Da Nang City. Photo by VnExpress/Nguyen Dong

National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines is rolling out a series of measures to control the transport of lithium backup batteries on its flights, aiming to minimize risks and uphold aviation safety standards.

The new rules ban the use of lithium backup batteries on all flights operated by the Vietnam Airlines Group, encompassing Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, and Vasco. Passengers carrying such devices in hand luggage must declare them at check-in and place them for easy inspection and detection of any irregularities.

To manage potential onboard incidents, Vietnam Airlines said it has equipped its fleet with specialized tools, including heat-resistant gloves and fire- and smoke-proof containment bags, all sourced from leading global manufacturers and certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.

On the ground, the airline has teamed up with the Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security to enhance baggage screening at key hubs like Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat international airports.

Lithium batteries, common in personal electronics, are banned from checked baggage under international aviation safety standards due to their potential to ignite or explode if damaged or overheated. Recent incidents involving lithium battery-related fires and smoke on international flights, some requiring emergency landings, have heightened global concerns.

Source: VN EXPRESS