Before an aircraft takes off, not only passengers but also cargo must undergo security checks. Certain types of goods require an Air Transport Identification Report to board the flight. This article explains the necessity of these reports and which categories of cargo must possess this critical "boarding pass."
The Air Transport Identification Report, officially known as the Identification and Classification Report for Air Transport of Goods , is a vital safety assessment document in air freight. Often referred to simply as the "air transport identification" or "identification report" by industry professionals, it serves a fundamentally different purpose from the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) used in maritime shipping. While MSDS focuses on safe handling instructions, the air transport identification specifically evaluates goods for aviation safety compliance.
Given that aviation safety standards are significantly more stringent than maritime requirements—especially when cargo travels in passenger aircraft bellies—these identification reports become particularly crucial. Below are the categories of goods that require an air transport identification report:
1. Powder-based Goods: Safety in the Details
All powdered substances, regardless of composition, must be accompanied by an identification report. Common examples include spirulina powder and various plant extracts. The fine particulate nature of these materials presents potential risks of dispersion or leakage during flight, which could compromise cabin environment and equipment safety.
2. Chemical Products: Mandatory "Identification"
Most chemical products require identification reports for air transport. Chemicals fall into two categories: hazardous and non-hazardous. Even when classified as non-hazardous, these materials still require standard identification reports to verify their safety status for air transport.
3. Oil-containing Goods: Preventing Potential Ignition Sources
Items containing oil or fuel residues—such as automotive parts with fuel remnants, camping equipment with flammable liquids, or any machinery containing petroleum-based substances—require thorough evaluation. These materials' flammable nature poses significant risks if leaked or vaporized during flight.
4. Battery-powered Equipment: Electrical Safety Considerations
Goods containing batteries—from electronic devices to motorized equipment like lawnmowers, golf carts, or wheelchairs—must undergo safety assessment. Batteries present risks of short-circuiting, overheating, or even combustion during transport, necessitating professional evaluation.
5. Liquid, Gas, or Pressure-containing Items: Seal Integrity Matters
Equipment containing liquid or gaseous components—such as mercury-filled instruments, pressure gauges, or any device with sealed fluid compartments—requires special attention. The identification process focuses on evaluating container integrity and potential leakage risks during pressure changes at altitude.
6. Magnetic Materials: Navigation Interference Risks
According to International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations, magnetic materials typically require evaluation. The magnetic fields generated by these items could potentially interfere with aircraft navigation systems. IATA 902 regulations specify that any magnetic item must measure below 0.159A/m (200nT) at 2.1 meters distance to qualify as standard cargo.
Common magnetic items include:
- Raw materials: Magnets, neodymium alloys, magnetic blocks
- Audio equipment: Speakers, microphones, headphones, communication devices
- Electromechanical devices: Motors, generators, electric vehicles, household appliances
- Other magnetic items: Security systems, compasses, measuring instruments, medical devices
Obtaining an Air Transport Identification Report
Specialized third-party agencies conduct these evaluations. Shippers must provide detailed product information including composition, physical properties, and intended use. The agency then performs assessments according to aviation safety standards before issuing the final report.
The Critical Importance of Identification Reports
These reports serve as essential safety measures in air cargo operations. By identifying potential risks and establishing appropriate safety protocols, they help ensure the safety of aircraft, cargo, and personnel. For shippers, providing accurate product information and cooperating with evaluation procedures represents both a legal obligation and an industry best practice.
Understanding which goods require air transport identification and completing the necessary documentation represents a fundamental requirement for safe, efficient air cargo operations.