China bans uncertified power banks on domestic flights amid rising fire risks
From 28 June 2025, passengers on Chinese domestic flights will be banned from carrying uncertified or recalled power banks, as regulators tighten safety rules following a series of fire incidents linked to lithium batteries. Authorities say the new measures are crucial as air travel demand surges past 700 million annual passengers.
- China will ban uncertified and recalled power banks on domestic flights starting 28 June 2025.
- The move follows multiple lithium battery fire incidents, including two recent flight diversions.
- Airports will set up disposal areas, improve charging facilities, and expand staff training.
- Industry experts say the policy could influence aviation safety regulations worldwide.
China will prohibit passengers from carrying uncertified power banks on all domestic flights starting 28 June 2025, in a sweeping safety measure aimed at curbing fires caused by lithium batteries.
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) announced the ban in an emergency notice issued on 26 June. Power banks without a visible China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark, devices with damaged or unclear labels, and any products subject to official recalls will be barred from aircraft cabins.
The agency said the decision comes after a surge in onboard fire and smoke incidents this year, many linked to portable chargers and other lithium battery products.
A response to growing risks
The CAAC cited multiple recent recalls of major-brand power banks due to defective battery cells. In parallel, the State Administration for Market Regulation has revoked or suspended the CCC certifications of several battery and charger manufacturers. Together, these developments pointed to what regulators described as “growing safety and quality risks” in consumer power storage devices.
“Passenger safety is paramount,” the notice stated. “With domestic air travel continuing to expand, stricter measures are required to mitigate potential hazards.”
According to CAAC data, China’s domestic airlines carried more than 730 million passengers in 2024, placing immense pressure on safety systems to manage risks associated with portable electronics.
Recent flight diversions highlight dangers
Two high-profile incidents underscored the urgency of the new rules.
-
On 31 May, a China Southern Airlines flight bound for Guangzhou was forced to return to Hangzhou shortly after take-off when smoke was detected coming from a passenger’s camera battery and power bank.
-
In March, a Hong Kong Airlines flight was diverted to Fuzhou after smoke was seen in the overhead compartment, later traced to a malfunctioning power bank.
Both incidents ended without casualties but illustrated how even small devices can disrupt flight operations and endanger passengers.
Aligning with global standards
The new rules bring China closer in line with international aviation guidelines, particularly the Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air, published by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
While most countries allow power banks in carry-on baggage under certain watt-hour limits, airlines worldwide have become increasingly cautious about in-flight use and charging.
Industry analysts say China’s move goes further by banning uncertified devices outright, potentially setting a new benchmark for regulators in other markets.
“Lithium battery safety is a global challenge,” said aviation consultant Zhang Wei, based in Shanghai. “What China is doing may influence how other countries regulate consumer electronics on aircraft.”
Implementation at airports and airlines
To ensure compliance, the CAAC has instructed airlines and airports to roll out extensive passenger education campaigns.
0 Comments