China will ban uncertified power banks on all domestic flights from 28 June, 2025, as authorities intensify safety measures following a series of fire and smoke incidents involving lithium battery products.
According to an emergency notice issued by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) on 26 June, passengers will be prohibited from carrying power banks without a clear China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark, as well as those with unclear or damaged labels, or devices that have been officially recalled.
The CAAC cited an increasing number of onboard fire incidents this year linked to power banks and other lithium battery products. In recent months, multiple top-brand power bank manufacturers have recalled large batches of products due to battery cell safety risks.
Additionally, the State Administration for Market Regulation has revoked or suspended the CCC certification of several power bank and battery cell manufacturers. These factors highlight the growing safety and quality risks posed by power banks carried by passengers.
In response, the CAAC has decided to adopt stricter control measures in line with international standards outlined in the Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air.
Airlines and their agents have been instructed to strengthen public education on the fire and smoke risks posed by power banks. They are to guide passengers actively to avoid carrying non-compliant devices.
Airports have been directed to use broadcast announcements, dynamic display screens, and prominent signage at security checkpoints and check-in counters to inform travellers. Additional staff will be deployed at security checkpoints to assist with inspections and provide explanations to passengers.
The notice requires airports to set up clearly designated areas for passengers to voluntarily dispose of or temporarily store non-compliant power banks. These facilities must be convenient and well-managed to encourage compliance and improve passenger understanding.
Moreover, airports are encouraged to accelerate the installation and maintenance of charging facilities within terminals, referring to the Guidelines on the Construction of Passenger Portable Electronic Device Charging Facilities in Terminals. Enhancing the availability and accessibility of charging infrastructure aims to reduce dependence on personal power banks.
Airlines and airports must also strengthen the training and management of passenger service staff. Personnel should be well-versed in the safety risks associated with power banks and be able to accurately and effectively respond to passenger enquiries.
The notice further calls for improved emergency response plans for incidents involving lithium battery fires or smoke. Staff should enhance situational awareness, quick response capabilities, and coordination to ensure timely and appropriate handling of emergencies.
This comprehensive approach reflects China’s broader efforts to safeguard civil aviation as domestic air travel continues to surge. According to CAAC data, 730 million people flew domestically in 2024, underscoring the urgency of effective risk mitigation.
Recent high-profile incidents have illustrated the potential dangers. On 31 May, a China Southern Airlines flight returned to Hangzhou shortly after take-off when smoke was detected from a passenger’s camera battery and power bank. In March, a Hong Kong Airlines flight was diverted to Fuzhou following a suspected power bank fire in the overhead compartment.
The updated regulations place China among a growing list of Asian jurisdictions strengthening controls over portable chargers. While other countries allow power banks in cabin luggage, in-flight use is increasingly restricted to minimise risks.
Industry observers suggest that these new measures may influence regional and global regulatory standards, as other markets face similar challenges with lithium battery safety.
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