Dangerous Goods
The transport of dangerous goods by air is regulated by ICAO Annex 18 and the ICAO Technical Instructions (Doc 9284). The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) is the industry-standard manual that provides practical guidance based on ICAO rules. Pilots, cabin crew, ground handlers, and shipping agents must all receive DG training. This guide covers what dangerous goods training involves, the classification system, pilot responsibilities, and certification requirements.
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Who Needs This
ICAO (Global)
Annex 18 and Doc 9284 apply to all 193 member states. National variations exist.
EASA States
EU OPS implements ICAO DG requirements. Some EU-specific additions (EU 965/2012).
FAA (United States)
49 CFR Parts 171-175 (DOT/PHMSA). FAA-specific requirements in 14 CFR 175. Some differences from ICAO (e.g., quantity limits).
IATA Member Airlines
IATA DGR is the practical reference used by most airlines worldwide. Based on ICAO Doc 9284 with airline-specific additions.
Middle East / Asia
Generally follow ICAO/IATA standards. Some state-specific restrictions on certain classes.
What's Covered
Dangerous Goods Classification (9 Classes)
Pilot Responsibilities & Awareness
DG Training Categories & Recurrency
Standards & Requirements
- ICAO Annex 18 — The Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air
- ICAO Doc 9284 (Technical Instructions) — updated annually
- IATA DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations) — published annually, effective January 1
- Initial training completion certificate required before handling/accepting DG
- Recurrent training every 24 months
- Operators must have an approved DG training program
- Training must be function-specific (Category 1-6)
Key ICAO Standards & Documents
- ICAO Annex 18 — The Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air
- ICAO Doc 9284 — Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air
- IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) — Annual Edition
- ICAO Doc 9481 — Emergency Response Guidance for Aircraft Incidents Involving Dangerous Goods
- IATA Lithium Battery Guidance Document
How to Prepare
Take an approved DG training course from an IATA-accredited training center or airline
Study the current edition of IATA DGR — focus on the Table of Contents navigation and how to look up substances
Learn the 9 classes and their divisions — know the labels and placards visually
For pilots: Focus on NOTOC interpretation, emergency procedures (Doc 9481), and passenger exceptions
Practice with DG mock exams — most training providers include test prep materials
Study lithium battery regulations separately — they are the most common DG category and most frequently updated
Review real DG incident reports for practical awareness
Keep your DGR manual current — new edition every year with changes highlighted
Key Differences by Region
49 CFR governs US DG transport. Some quantity differences from ICAO. US-specific reporting requirements (PHMSA). Hazmat endorsement for ground transport.
Implements ICAO DG requirements via EU regulations. CAT.OP.MPA.160 for operator requirements. Minor EU-specific additions.
IATA DGR adds airline-specific restrictions beyond ICAO minimums. Many airlines use IATA DGR as their compliance document. Table 2.3.A lists state and operator variations.
Canadian TDG Regulations (Transportation of Dangerous Goods). Some differences from ICAO regarding exemptions and training requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I need DG recurrent training?
Every 24 months. If your recurrent training lapses, you cannot handle, accept, or be responsible for dangerous goods until requalified.
Do pilots need to memorize all DG classes?
Pilots need Category 4 training focused on the NOTOC, emergency procedures, and general awareness. You do not need to know packing instructions or acceptance procedures in detail — that is for Category 1 and 2 staff.
Can passengers carry lithium batteries on flights?
Yes, with restrictions. Spare batteries must be in carry-on baggage (not checked). Power banks are treated as spare batteries. Batteries over 100Wh require airline approval up to 160Wh. Above 160Wh is prohibited for passengers.
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