China Bans Non-Compliant Power Banks on Domestic Flights for Safety Reasons

The 3C certification is a mandatory safety and quality standard for many products in China, including electronic devices like portable power banks. The absence or unclear display of this certification on a product indicates that it may not meet the required safety standards, posing potential risks to users and, in the context of air travel, to the safety of flights. The decision follows a series of incidents involving portable power banks and lithium battery products catching fire or emitting smoke on flights. Several leading brands of portable power banks have recently recalled batches of their products due to safety risks associated with the battery cells. Additionally, the State Administration for Market Regulation has suspended or revoked the 3C certification of numerous power banks and battery cell manufacturers, further highlighting the safety concerns.

Prominent brands like Romoss and Anker have issued recalls for specific models of their portable power banks due to issues with the battery cells, which could lead to overheating and, in extreme cases, fires. These recalls and the actions taken by regulatory bodies underscore the potential dangers these products can pose when carried on airplanes. This year has seen a surge in incidents involving portable chargers, also known as power banks, and other lithium battery products carried by passengers catching fire or emitting smoke on airplanes. The frequent occurrence of such incidents has led to a significant increase in risk for airlines, prompting the Civil Aviation Administration to take drastic measures to mitigate these risks.

As a result, the administration has issued an urgent notice prohibiting passengers from carrying power banks without a clear 3C certification mark, or those that have been recalled, on domestic flights starting from June 28. This move is part of a broader effort to strengthen control and ensure adherence to international safety standards for the transportation of hazardous materials by air. By banning non-compliant power banks, the Civil Aviation Administration aims to reduce the risk of in-flight fires and protect the safety of passengers and crew.

In response to the growing safety concerns, the Civil Aviation Administration of China has implemented stringent measures to mitigate the risks associated with carrying power banks on board. Airlines and airports have been instructed to strengthen checks on passengers' portable power banks and to prevent those that do not meet the safety standards from being carried onto flights. Passengers are being advised through various channels, including public announcements and posted notifications at airports, about the risks associated with certain types of power banks and the new regulations.

To facilitate compliance and minimize inconvenience to passengers, airports are being required to provide clear guidelines on the handling of non-compliant power banks, including designated areas for their disposal or temporary storage. Furthermore, airports are urged to improve the availability and accessibility of charging facilities within terminals to reduce the need for passengers to carry portable power banks. Similar concerns over the safety of lithium batteries and portable electronic devices have been raised internationally, with various airlines and regulatory bodies issuing guidelines and restrictions on their carriage.

The International Air Transport Association and the International Civil Aviation Organization have provided recommendations and standards for the safe transportation of dangerous goods, including lithium batteries, by air. The sudden implementation of this emergency notice may cause inconvenience to some passengers, particularly those who rely heavily on their portable chargers during travel. However, given the recent spate of incidents involving charging batteries catching fire or emitting smoke, the move is seen as a necessary step to ensure the safety of all travelers.

To minimize disruptions to their journeys, passengers are advised to check their charging batteries before embarking on their trips to ensure they comply with the new regulations. This includes verifying that their charging batteries carry the required 3C certification mark and are not among the models that have been recalled. By taking these precautionary measures, travelers can play their part in safeguarding aviation safety, which is of paramount importance. The Civil Aviation Administration's stringent control measures demonstrate its commitment to protecting the lives of all passengers, and cooperation from the traveling public is essential in making air travel safer for everyone.

Airlines and airports are also required to step up their efforts in informing passengers about the new rules, enhancing inspections, and providing facilities for the proper disposal or temporary storage of non-compliant charging batteries. This multi-faceted approach aims to prevent any potential risks associated with these devices and maintain the high safety standards of the aviation industry. The move by China's Civil Aviation Administration to ban certain types of portable power banks from domestic flights reflects a proactive approach to addressing safety concerns and mitigating potential risks. As the use of electronic devices and their accessories continues to grow, ensuring their safe use in all environments, including during air travel, remains a critical priority for regulatory bodies, manufacturers, and users alike. By enforcing stricter safety standards and promoting awareness among passengers, the aviation industry can work towards minimizing risks and enhancing the safety of air travel.