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Petrobras Announces New Safety Regulation That Prohibits the Transport of Spare Lithium Batteries on Offshore Flights. Understand What Changes and Avoid Embarkation Issues.
Petrobras has defined new safety rules for offshore flights heading to oil platforms, which will directly impact professionals in the sector. Starting on June 1, 2025, spare lithium batteries will be prohibited on offshore helicopters.
The measure applies to power banks, electronic cigarettes, and replacement external batteries. The information comes from Everton Villar, an offshore logistics specialist and maritime planner working in the field.
The restriction addresses the growing concern over the risk of fires caused by overheating of these devices, which can compromise the safety of everyone on board the aircraft used for transport to the offshore units operated by Petrobras.
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Why Did Petrobras Prohibit Lithium Batteries on Offshore Flights?
The new Petrobras regulation aims to reduce the risks associated with the air transport of equipment that uses lithium batteries. These items are known for their potential for spontaneous combustion, especially when damaged, poorly packaged, or in overheating conditions.
Unlike commercial flights, offshore helicopters do not have pressurized cargo compartments or adequate fire containment systems. Therefore, transporting these batteries poses a threat to the safety of flights connecting the mainland to oil platforms offshore.
What Will Still Be Allowed on Petrobras Offshore Flights?
Even with the prohibition of spare lithium batteries, Petrobras will allow embarked workers to bring some personal electronics, as long as they have factory-installed batteries and are within the limit of 160Wh.
Among the devices authorized on offshore flights:
- Laptops
- Bluetooth Headsets
- Tablets
- Cell Phones
- Electronics with fixed batteries, as long as they do not exceed 160Wh
Attention: any device with removable or replacement batteries will be prohibited from boarding. This includes camera accessories, high-powered flashlights, portable tools, and walkie-talkies.
Which Lithium Batteries Are Prohibited on Offshore Helicopters?
The new Petrobras directive categorically prohibits boarding with spare lithium batteries. Check out the main examples of items that cannot be brought on board starting June 1, 2025:
- Power banks of any capacity
- Loose external batteries for cell phones, cameras, tablets, radios, or laptops
- Electronic cigarettes and vaporizers
- Rechargeable lithium batteries (such as type 18650, for example)
These items must be sent exclusively by land or maritime transport, provided they are packaged safely and in compliance with safety regulations.
Transition Period Defined by Petrobras Goes Until May 31, 2025
Petrobras has established a transition period for professionals to adapt to the new rules. Until May 31, 2025, it will still be allowed to carry power banks on the body, provided they are not damaged and comply with safety recommendations.
Starting June 1, the restriction will be total, and any spare lithium battery presented at check-in at heliports will be barred, potentially causing delays in the offshore worker’s flight.
Safety of Offshore Flights Is a Priority for Petrobras
Petrobras emphasizes that the measure aims to preserve the lives of its employees and other professionals in the sector who embark daily toward offshore oil platforms. The number of personal devices using lithium batteries has increased in recent years, necessitating updates to corporate air safety regulations.
The decision follows recommendations from IATA (International Air Transport Association), which classifies lithium batteries as dangerous goods, requiring special precautions in flight environments.
Share This Information with Your Offshore Team
If you work in the offshore industry or know embarked workers, it is essential to spread this information. Petrobras’s new requirements affect everyone using offshore flights to board platforms, whether in the Campos Basin, Santos, Sergipe-Alagoas, or other operational regions.
Avoid setbacks at heliports, flight delays, and, above all, prioritize collective safety.
Did you know about this new regulation? How will it impact your boarding routine? Do you agree with Petrobras’s decision? Share your opinion in the comments!
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