FAA of U.S. and Vietnam Airlines Enhance Safety Measures for Lithium-Ion Batteries After Rising Fire Risks, Introducing New Protocols for Air Travel

Published on September 10, 2025

As concerns rise over the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in aviation, both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Vietnam Airlines have introduced new safety regulations aimed at mitigating these risks. With an increase in incidents related to lithium-ion batteries—including smoke, fire, and extreme heat—both organizations have taken significant steps to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members during flights.

The FAA issued a safety alert to airlines, emphasizing the growing risks posed by lithium batteries in passenger compartments. This alert comes on the back of a surge in serious incidents, with 50 reported cases this year involving overheating, fires, or smoke from lithium-ion batteries. These incidents have caused delays, diversions, and injuries, prompting the FAA to take action.

Meanwhile, Vietnam Airlines, part of the Vietnam Airlines Group, which also includes Pacific Airlines and Vasco, has implemented new regulations aimed at enhancing safety for its passengers. These measures include specific guidelines for passengers carrying lithium-ion backup batteries, as well as changes to the airline’s emergency response procedures.

FAA’s Safety Alert: Mitigation Strategies for Lithium-Ion Battery Risks

The FAA has recommended that airlines adopt a series of risk mitigation strategies to address the potential hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in personal electronics. These strategies include:

• Clear Messaging: Airlines must communicate the fire risks associated with lithium batteries to passengers and crew. This messaging ensures that all parties are aware of the potential dangers and know how to respond in case of an emergency.
• Reviewing Firefighting Procedures: The FAA recommends that airlines review and update their firefighting procedures to ensure that they are equipped to handle lithium battery fires, which can be more difficult to control than other types of fires.
• Enhanced Crew Training: Additional training for flight crews is recommended to ensure they are well-prepared to manage incidents involving lithium-ion batteries. This training includes understanding the behavior of lithium battery fires and knowing how to use the tools and protocols available to mitigate risks.
• Monitoring Storage Areas: The FAA urges airlines to pay closer attention to the storage of lithium batteries, particularly in areas that are not easily visible or accessible, such as overhead bins or in carry-on baggage. Proper storage is crucial to preventing incidents related to lithium batteries, especially those that are not adequately protected from short circuits.

These guidelines are designed to improve safety in the aviation industry by addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing airlines today.

Airline Policies on Lithium Batteries

In response to the FAA’s alert, many airlines have updated their policies regarding the transport of lithium-ion batteries. Southwest Airlines, for example, has introduced a policy requiring passengers to keep portable chargers and power banks visible during flights. This policy, effective from May 28, 2025, ensures that any overheating or fire incidents can be quickly identified by flight attendants, allowing for prompt action.

The FAA also stresses that spare lithium-ion batteries, including power banks, should only be carried in carry-on baggage. Passengers are urged to remove all spare lithium batteries from checked luggage to prevent any potential safety hazards. In cases where a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or at planeside, all spare lithium batteries and power banks must be removed and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin.

Vietnam Airlines’ Enhanced Safety Measures

Vietnam Airlines, in a bid to enhance safety and passenger protection, has introduced stringent measures regarding lithium-ion batteries. Passengers carrying lithium-ion backup batteries in their hand luggage are now required to declare these items at check-in. The airline has also made it mandatory for passengers to ensure that the batteries are easily accessible for inspection, facilitating the detection of any potential issues before they board.

To address potential onboard incidents, Vietnam Airlines has equipped its fleet with essential tools, including heat-resistant gloves and fire- and smoke-proof containment bags. These tools are sourced from leading manufacturers and are certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV). In addition, flight crews have undergone comprehensive training to handle emergencies effectively and prevent accidents related to lithium batteries.

The airline has also partnered with the Immigration Department (A08) under the Ministry of Public Security to enhance baggage screening at major airports, such as Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat international airports. This collaboration helps ensure that the new regulations are followed and enhances the safety protocols in place at these key hubs.

Global Concerns and International Regulations

Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in smartphones, laptops, and other personal electronics, have long been recognized as a potential hazard to aviation safety. These batteries can catch fire or even explode if damaged or overheated. Under international aviation safety standards, lithium-ion batteries are prohibited from being carried in checked baggage due to their inherent fire risk.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have established global guidelines for the transport of lithium batteries. These guidelines require that passengers carry spare lithium batteries in their carry-on baggage, with terminals protected from short circuits. Countries around the world have adopted these standards, reflecting a unified effort to mitigate the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries in air travel.

Ongoing Commitment to Safety

Both the FAA and Vietnam Airlines have made it clear that safety is their top priority. The FAA’s recommendations serve as a warning to airlines to take action to address the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. Airlines are encouraged to update their procedures and policies to ensure they are prepared for potential lithium battery-related incidents.

Similarly, Vietnam Airlines’ proactive approach to ensuring the safety of its passengers is a reflection of its commitment to adhering to international aviation standards and continually improving safety protocols. With the increasing number of devices powered by lithium batteries, both organizations are taking crucial steps to prevent any incidents that could jeopardize passenger safety.

Conclusion: Safety and Innovation in Air Travel

The growing reliance on lithium-ion batteries in everyday consumer electronics has created significant challenges for the aviation industry. The FAA and Vietnam Airlines have both responded to these challenges by implementing new regulations and safety protocols to protect passengers and ensure safe air travel.

The FAA’s alert and Vietnam Airlines’ measures demonstrate the importance of vigilant oversight in the aviation sector, as both organizations work to stay ahead of the evolving risks posed by lithium batteries. With continuous updates to safety procedures, training, and equipment, airlines and regulatory authorities are committed to making air travel safer for everyone.