IATA classifies dangerous goods into 9 classes. As an OBC courier (passenger), you are subject to stricter but simpler rules than commercial cargo.
Class 1: Explosives
- Fireworks, ammunition, flares, detonators
- ❌ PROHIBITED for passengers (with very limited exceptions for sporting ammunition)
Class 2: Gases
- 2.1 Flammable gases (butane, propane)
- 2.2 Non-flammable, non-toxic (CO2, nitrogen)
- 2.3 Toxic gases (chlorine, ammonia)
- ⚠️ Most prohibited. Small aerosols (toiletries) allowed in limited quantities.
Class 3: Flammable Liquids
- Gasoline, acetone, alcohol, paints
- ❌ PROHIBITED (except toiletries/medicines in containers ≤100ml)
Class 4: Flammable Solids
- 4.1 Flammable solids (matches, sulfur)
- 4.2 Spontaneously combustible
- 4.3 Dangerous when wet
- ⚠️ Safety matches allowed (one pack, carry-on only)
Class 5: Oxidizers & Organic Peroxides
- 5.1 Oxidizers (bleach, pool chemicals)
- 5.2 Organic peroxides
- ❌ PROHIBITED for passengers
Class 6: Toxic & Infectious Substances
- 6.1 Toxic substances (pesticides, poisons)
- 6.2 Infectious substances (medical samples)
- ❌ PROHIBITED (medical samples require special approval)
Class 7: Radioactive Materials
- Medical isotopes, nuclear materials
- ❌ PROHIBITED for passengers (except implanted pacemakers)
Class 8: Corrosives
- Acids, batteries with acid, mercury
- ❌ PROHIBITED (spillable batteries not allowed)
Class 9: Miscellaneous
- Lithium batteries, dry ice, magnetized materials
- ⚠️ Conditional - subject to specific regulations
Important for OBC: As a courier traveling as a passenger, you follow "Provisions for Dangerous Goods Carried by Passengers or Crew" which is Table 2.3.A in the DGR manual. These are MORE restrictive than cargo rules but simpler to follow.