Flying With Power Banks? China’s New 3C Certification Law Is A Game-Changer For Aviation Safety – What You Need To Know

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China has introduced a new ban on uncertified power banks to address the increasing fire risks posed by lithium batteries without proper certification. This initiative is a key part of a broader strategy to improve aviation safety, designed to safeguard passengers from the risks posed by uncertified electronic devices on flights. With the rise in incidents involving power banks, the ban ensures that only certified, safe devices are allowed onboard, reducing the risk of hazardous situations in the air.

Starting from July 5, 2025, the regulations introduced by China’s aviation authority prohibit passengers from carrying power banks that are not certified under the China Compulsory Certification (3C) system. Power banks without valid 3C labels, those with unclear markings, or any models that have been recently recalled will not be allowed on domestic flights. This comprehensive crackdown follows an increase in incidents involving power banks, including 15 reported cases within China’s aviation sector alone in 2025.

In one of the most notable incidents earlier in the year, a fire broke out on an Air Busan flight in January, caused by a passenger’s power bank. The fire resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft and served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by non-certified devices. In light of these incidents, China’s Civil Aviation Administration (CAAC) has made the enforcement of more stringent safety protocols a top priority.

Understanding China’s Power Bank Safety Regulations

The China Compulsory Certification (3C) has been a mandatory requirement for power banks sold in China since August 2023. This certification ensures that all power banks meet the national safety and quality standards, which include guidelines for preventing fire hazards, electric shocks, and overheating. Without the 3C label, power banks are considered to be unsafe for use, particularly on flights, where safety is paramount.

A recent inspection by China’s market watchdog revealed troubling statistics: 65 out of 149 batches of power banks did not meet the required safety standards. This discovery has led to heightened concern over the potential risks these devices pose, particularly when traveling by air. Power banks that do not have clear 3C markings or are part of recent product recalls are the primary focus of this ban.

Essential Information You Should Be Aware of Before Traveling to China

If you plan to travel to China and rely on a power bank to keep your devices charged, it is essential to ensure that your power bank complies with the new regulations. Here’s what you need to do:

• Ensure Clear 3C Labelling: When passing through security, make sure your power bank is clearly labeled with a valid 3C certification. If your device lacks this certification, it will be confiscated.
• Power Bank Capacity Limits: Power banks with a capacity of less than 100Wh are still allowed onboard without restrictions.
• Approval for Larger Power Banks: Power banks with capacities between 100Wh and 160Wh must receive prior approval from the airline before being carried on board.
• Strict Prohibition for Over-Sized Power Banks: Any power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited on flights.
• Non-Compliant Devices: If your power bank is found to be non-compliant with these regulations, you will have several options:
  • The device could be kept in storage at the airport.
  • It may be mailed back to the owner at their expense.
  • Alternatively, it may be voluntarily discarded at the airport.
• Secure Recycling: To ensure safety and prevent unauthorized resale, secure recycling measures will be in place at the airport for non-compliant power banks.

These regulations are a response to the growing concern over the risks posed by lithium batteries, which are commonly used in power banks. The risks increase significantly when the batteries are exposed to extreme conditions, such as high temperatures or physical impact, which can occur during air travel. The CAAC has stressed the need to regulate these devices more strictly in light of the incidents involving power banks catching fire in the past year.

Global Aviation Industry Response

The crackdown on uncertified power banks in China reflects a broader trend across the global aviation industry. Airlines around the world have been tightening their rules regarding power banks due to the safety hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries. Some airlines now require power banks to be kept visible at all times, while others have gone as far as asking passengers not to use them during flights.

In fact, the prohibition of in-flight charging has been a policy in China for nearly a decade. Since 2014, Chinese carriers have banned passengers from charging their devices on board, a measure that is now being adopted by other airlines internationally. The move aims to minimize the risk of fires, which can be triggered by faulty or poorly manufactured power banks.

China’s new regulations on power banks reflect the country’s commitment to improving aviation safety in response to rising incidents related to lithium-ion battery failures. By ensuring that only certified power banks are allowed on domestic flights, the government aims to reduce the risks of fire and damage to aircraft. For travelers, the key takeaway is to ensure that their power banks are properly certified with the 3C label, and to understand the restrictions based on battery capacity.

As the aviation industry continues to adapt to evolving safety concerns, these measures are expected to serve as a model for other nations looking to tackle similar issues. Travelers planning to visit China should stay informed about these regulations to avoid any disruptions during their journey. Anker and Romoss, have recalled affected products. Globally, airlines are also strengthening their regulations: some now require power banks to remain visible, while others are advising passengers not to use them during flights. This restriction, which has become common practice for many airlines worldwide in 2025, has been in place in China for nearly a decade, as in-flight charging was prohibited for Chinese carriers as early as 2014.