Paris, June 10th, 2015 - Saft, the world's leading designer and manufacturer of advanced technology batteries for industry, has developed a specialized training course for aviation operations professionals working with on-board lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery systems. The training provides the essential skills and knowledge of best practice that will enable aircraft operators to ensure the optimum performance, reliability and long life of their new generation Li-ion batteries.

The initial course will be given over summer 2015, with attendees including technicians from the launch airlines of the A350 XWB, which is fitted with four Saft 450VH1 Li-ion batteries.

Li-ion batteries are now being adopted by the aviation industry to provide backup power for vital on-board electrical systems. Compared with conventional batteries, Li-ion batteries offer significant savings in weight, combined with high performance, maintenance free and the capability to be serviced without removal from the aircraft.

The two-day training course is available at Aerocampus Aquitaine, the centre of aviation operations and maintenance training on the outskirts of Bordeaux. It meets the requirements of the Air Transport Association's (ATA's) Level IV Specialized Training as Li-ion battery systems are classified as a non-repairable unit (LRU: Line Replaceable Unit).

During the new course, as well as specialized knowledge relating to Li-ion technology, trainees will gain an overall appreciation of the characteristics of Saft batteries for aviation. They will return to their normal workplace fully equipped with the knowledge of how to optimise the day to day operation of Li-ion batteries to ensure the highest levels of safety, performance, reliability and lifetime with optimised operating costs. The syllabus includes a mix of theory and hands-on technical sessions. Trainees will undergo a final assessment, and on passing they will receive a 'Certificate of Completion'.

The new Li-ion course complements Saft's existing 15 years' experience in training programmes, which help aircraft operators to control operating costs and maximise service life and availability of Ni-Cd batteries.

"We are pleased to launch this new Saft course that will provide aviation technicians with the highest level of practical knowledge on Li-ion aviation technology." said Laurent Bressoud, Product & Support manager for Saft's aviation batteries. "Our aim is to help operators of the Airbus A350 XWB and other future aircraft equipped with Saft Li-ion battery systems to enjoy a lifetime of safer, reliable and trouble-free operations."

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