SF Helps BYD Complete A99 International Air Transport Certification and First Flight for Large Power Lithium Batteries

On November 23, 2023, a shipment of large power lithium batteries produced by BYD’s subsidiary FinDreams Battery Co., Ltd. departed from Ezhou Huahu Airport via SF Airlines and successfully arrived at Frankfurt Airport, Germany. Upon landing, the products were dispatched directly to end customers in Hungary. This milestone represents the first export of BYD’s large power lithium batteries via a Chinese airline’s cargo service and SF Airlines’ inaugural cross-border transport of such batteries from Ezhou Huahu Airport. It demonstrates SF’s enhanced capabilities in cross-border dangerous goods aviation logistics, marks a new level of competence for Chinese airlines in hazardous material air transport, and signifies a major step forward for high-quality development in the express logistics industry.

Currently, China's power lithium-ion battery industry leads the world in terms of scale, and its power battery products possess strong competitiveness on the international market. However, to enter the global market, a high-quality and efficient aviation logistics supply chain service system is essential. According to international standards, the maximum net weight of each package of lithium batteries for normal air transport shall not exceed 35 kg. Lithium batteries exceeding 35 kg must comply with the special provisions of A99 in the International Civil Aviation Organization's Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (IGSDS). This requires submitting an approval application to the civil aviation authorities, completing multiple procedures including lithium battery safety testing, large-scale combustion testing, transport packaging certification, storage and handling, emergency drills, and A99 approval. This not only requires relevant operational qualifications from all support units but also demands that all parties possess mature and comprehensive lithium-ion battery transportation support capabilities, as well as close collaboration among all involved entities.

Guided by the principle of advancing industry needs and empowering partners, SF developed a comprehensive transport plan under the supervision of the CAAC Central-South Regional Administration, Shenzhen/Hubei Safety Supervision Offices, and the Dangerous Goods Transport Management Center. SF prepared A99 approval documentation, strictly implemented operational requirements, and conducted full assessments of aviation/operator qualifications. The CAAC center provided expert guidance on safety tests and packaging certification, while FinDreams Battery rigorously conducted tests per international standards.

To solidify expertise and ensure safety, SF implemented all safeguards to establish optimal protocols for routine large battery transport. Before the operation, SF Airlines and Ezhou Huahu Airport conducted emergency drills simulating "warehouse fire involving dangerous goods" under CAAC Hubei’s oversight. These exercises validated contingency plans and inter-agency coordination, fortifying safety foundations for large battery air transport.

The mission’s success strengthens Chinese power batteries’ global competitiveness, stabilizes international supply chains, and accelerates China’s new energy industry growth. Moving forward, SF will leverage its unique advantages to connect domestic and global markets, support new energy exports, and enhance supply chain quality. By advancing specialized air cargo capabilities, SF will drive China’s aviation logistics evolution.

This project elevates the strategic partnership between SF Express and BYD Group, extending their supply chain collaboration. SF remains committed to customer-centric solutions, deepening integration into China’s new energy supply chains, and empowering domestic brands’ high-quality development.