Travelers in China now face new restrictions on power banks for domestic flights, as the country’s civil aviation regulator implements a critical safety measure to prevent potential battery-related incidents. Starting this Saturday, passengers will no longer be allowed to carry power banks that lack valid 3C certification, have unclear certification labels, or have been subject to product recalls.
The decision comes in response to an increasing number of safety concerns surrounding lithium battery products on aircraft. Fires and smoke incidents involving these portable power sources have raised significant alarm among aviation safety experts, prompting more stringent regulations to protect passengers and crew.
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) is taking a proactive approach to address these risks, aligning its policies with international standards for transporting dangerous goods by air. This move reflects a broader commitment to enhancing aviation safety by eliminating potentially hazardous electronic accessories from flights.
Behind the scenes, several power bank manufacturers have already been grappling with safety challenges. Some have issued voluntary recalls due to battery cell safety risks, while China’s top market regulator has taken decisive action by revoking or suspending 3C certifications for manufacturers with questionable product quality. These actions underscore the serious nature of the potential safety hazards associated with substandard portable chargers.
The new regulations require a comprehensive response from the aviation ecosystem. Airlines and their agents are now tasked with actively promoting awareness about the risks of carrying uncertified power banks. This includes educating passengers about the specific requirements and encouraging full compliance with the new safety rules.
Airports will play a crucial role in implementing these changes. They are expected to intensify safety messaging through multiple channels, including broadcasting systems, digital displays, and strategic placement of warning signs. Key areas like security checkpoints and check-in counters will become focal points for communicating the updated regulations to travelers.
The CAAC is also emphasizing the importance of comprehensive emergency preparedness. Airlines are urged to optimize their services, refine emergency response plans, and strengthen passenger communication protocols. These efforts aim to create a multi-layered approach to preventing potential battery-related incidents during air travel.
For travelers, this means carefully checking power bank certifications before heading to the airport. The 3C certification – a mandatory product certification system in China – will now serve as a critical marker of safety for portable chargers. Passengers with uncertified or recalled power banks will need to make alternative arrangements, such as leaving these devices at home or disposing of them before boarding.
While the new regulations may initially seem inconvenient, they represent a significant step toward improving aviation safety. The proactive approach demonstrates China’s commitment to protecting passengers and maintaining the highest standards of air travel safety.
Travelers are advised to stay informed about these new requirements and carefully review their electronic accessories before domestic flights. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the safety measures designed to protect passengers in an increasingly connected world.
