NTSB Issues Safety Recommendation A-14-117 to FAA on Lithium-Ion Battery Monitoring

The National Transportation Safety Board has issued safety recommendation A-14-117, identified by reference number DCA13IA037, addressed directly to the Federal Aviation Administration. This directive urges the agency to work closely with lithium-ion industry experts to address critical safety concerns related to battery technology. The core of the recommendation involves three specific actions: conducting research into battery monitoring system technologies that could improve the recognition of conditions leading to thermal runaway; developing active mitigation strategies for such conditions to minimize potential damage; and updating design and safety standards accordingly based on these findings. This recommendation highlights the need for enhanced technical oversight and standardization in the handling of lithium-ion batteries within aviation contexts.