DGR and LAR 2026 Editions: IATA Addresses Battery Risks and Enhances Animal Welfare
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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published the 2026 editions of its key manuals for cargo and ground operations. The updates introduce nearly 100 revisions to align global standards, placing a special focus on the transport of lithium batteries and animal welfare.
The publication, says IATA, responds to the industry's evolution and new safety challenges identified over the past year.
Focus on lithium batteries
The most prominent changes affect the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) and the Battery Shipping Regulations (BSR). IATA highlights that the air transport of lithium batteries grew 25% year-on-year.
This growth is accompanied by an increase in safety incident reports. Various aviation authorities have documented more cases of devices overheating in-flight, many linked to power banks.
The 2026 DGR revisions aim to address these risks and formalize shipping names for hybrid vehicles, update recommendations on passenger use of power banks in the cabin, and standardize operator variations (including Thailand, France, and the UK).
The BSR, meanwhile, imposes stricter charge limits for lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment and includes a new compliance checklist for shippers.
Animal welfare and ground operations
The Live Animals Regulations (LAR) also receives updates to improve animal welfare, a critical area given that IATA data shows over 200,000 non-domestic animal shipments occurred in 2024. The revisions introduce new material and ventilation specifications for animal containers.
Furthermore, Competency-Based Training Assessment (CBTA) guidelines for staff handling animals are now formalized, and guidelines were updated to include specifications for poultry, pangolins, and birds of prey. On the regulatory front, the inclusion of Brazil, which officially adopted the LAR in 2025, is a key development.
Finally, the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) focuses on operational efficiency and safety. Updates include new guidelines for handling unaccompanied minors, unruly passengers, and individuals requiring medical assistance. Baggage tracking procedures (aligned with IATA Resolution 753) and potable water management were also updated.
Digitalization of manuals
The association is also launching new digital tools to facilitate access to information. A highlight is the new online portal LAR Verify, which allows airlines, shippers, and freight forwarders to digitally access the regulations and offers an automated compliance solution.
Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice President of Products and Services, noted that global standards "have made flying safe and reliable" and that this year's updates reflect "advancements in technology, digitalization, regulation, and customer needs."
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