Governing Authorities

The process of transporting dangerous goods is controlled and governed by a variety of different regulatory associations, at both the national and international levels.

International Air Transport Association (IATA)

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) supports aviation with global standards for airline safety, security, efficiency, and sustainability.

National Aeronautic Association (NAA)

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the art, sport, and science of aviation in the United States.

Designated Postal Operator (DPO)

The Designated Postal Operator (DPO) is the governmental authority responsible for postal matters, such as whether or not it is legal to ship lithium batteries in certain geographical areas.

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)

The United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods is an arm of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe that helps ensure consistency between the different rules for different countries and states regarding the transport of dangerous goods. The United Nations has developed ways to harmonize the hazard classification criteria for all modes of transport.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a UN specialized agency, established by the United States to manage the administration and governance of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention). The organization works with member states and industry groups to reach agreement on international civil aviation Standards and Recommended Practices and policies in support of a safe, efficient, secure, economically sustainable, and environmentally responsible civil aviation sector.

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