Dangerous goods items which may be carried by passengers and crew

Dangerous Goods are common items which we use in our homes on a daily basis – but do we ever stop to consider the hazards associated with these items. They may appear quite harmless when they are stored in our garages or kitchen cupboards, but spill them, mix them together or expose them to heat, and they can become extremely dangerous. Examples of these items are chlorine, acid, drain cleaner, bleach etc. Should anything go wrong with items such as these whilst being carried onboard an aircraft, it can pose a serious threat to the safety of both the aircraft and the passengers. For this reason, items that are classified as dangerous goods must be carried in accordance with the ICAO Technical Instructions, as well as South African Civil Aviation Regulations Part 92 which relates to the “Conveyance of Dangerous Goods By Air”.

Some dangerous goods can only be transported on an aircraft if they are properly packed by a competent person or DG packing organisation. These items are listed in the ICAO-Technical Instructions and the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations and must be packed, marked and labelled in accordance with the ICAO-Technical Instructions. However, there are items listed in the regulations which may be brought onboard the aircraft by passengers and crewmembers, provided that the listed restrictions and limitations are adhered to. The table below provides information of the items which may be carried onboard the aircraft by passengers, in either their checked or carry-on baggage. It is vitally important that passenger handling staff and crewmembers be made aware of the requirements for the carriage of these items, so that they can advise passengers accordingly.

NOTE: If a passenger would like to carry a substance which is not listed on this table, and the substance is identified as having hazardous properties, they will need to get the item packed, marked and labelled in accordance with the dangerous goods regulations. Under no circumstances may the passenger bring the item be accepted as carry-on or checked baggage.

Should you have any queries regarding the carriage of dangerous goods, or the classification of hazardous articles, please consult the ICAO-Technical Instructions or the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations for more information.

DANGEROURS GOODS REGULATIONS

Click here to view TABLE 2.3.A which stipulates the provision for dangerous goods carried by passengers or crew. Dangerous goods must not be carried in or as passengers or crew, checked or carry-on baggage, except as otherwise provided in the attached. Please note that this table is updated annually and the version below is valid for the 2011 period only.