After a number of fire incidents involving devices powered by lithium batteries, Chinese authorities have implemented a comprehensive ban on uncertified power banks on domestic flights.
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) said in a statement on Wednesday that starting on June 28, travelers will not be permitted to bring power banks that do not have China Compulsory Certification (3C), have ambiguous labeling, or are associated with recalled products.
Following a sharp rise in occurrences involving overheating batteries, the administration stated that the action is intended to ensure flight safety.
Following two significant product recalls that cast doubt on the security of popular portable chargers, the decision was made. Shenzhen-based Romoss was compelled to recall around 492,000 of its 20,000mAh power banks earlier this month after several Chinese institutions raised concerns about the devices’ potential to catch fire hence the ban on power banks. The models in question were manufactured from June 2023 to July 2024.
Similarly, on June 20, the multinational electronics company Anker Innovations recalled over 710,000 of its power banks worldwide because of possible fire risks associated with battery cell components.
It was claimed by the CAAC that since the beginning of 2025, several in-flight accidents that involve lithium battery gadgets have caught fire or released smoke, hence prompted immediate regulatory attention. The agency highlighted the risks that are associated with out of control or faulty power banks, especially when flying and fire suppression is few and far between.
Even though the instructions of aviation authority will go into force before the August 1 deadline, 3C certification for lithium-ion batteries is only scheduled to become necessary on that day. This effectively prevents power banks that have already been purchased but are not certified from being transported on board.
The CAAC’s prohibition is the latest in a long line of regional limitations. Similar cautions have been issued this year by a number of airlines and authorities, including the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and EVA Air. These include complete bans, restrictions on using or charging power banks in flight, and prohibitions on keeping them in overhead bins.
In light of the rapid advancement of technology and the growing demand for personal electronic devices, industry analysts think the action indicates a vigorous tightening of aviation safety regulations.
Zhang Wei, an aviation safety consultant based in Shanghai said:
“Lithium battery fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish mid-air. The CAAC’s pre-emptive steps are in line with international safety standards,”.
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