POWER BANKS: Chinese airlines place snap ban, leaving flyers confused

Electronics seem to get a rough time from airlines. Recently, power banks, in particular, have been banned or are subject to tight restrictions on where they can be carried. ET is reporting that a snap ban has been imposed by some Chinese airlines.

Snap ban leaves travellers power-less

Airports in China are amassing discarded back up bateries after the country’s aviation authority imposed a snap ban on most battery packs on domestic flights. The ‘snap’ involved only two days’ notice, with the rule in effect from Saturday, June 28.

This has also affected some international departures from Shanghai. Travellers have been forced to ditch their power banks for security reasons, or miss their flights.

No 3C logo no fly

Under the new Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) rule, power banks need a ‘3C’ (China Compulsory Certification) logo to fly. The issue is that the 3C standard for power banks only came into effect in August 2023.

So, basically, if you bought a power bank in China before 2024, then it probably doesn’t qualify.

Batteries are being binned at security

No 3C, then its power bank in the bin. Even if it does have a 3C qualification, it must be placed in your carry-on, not your checked luggage.

Using your power bank in-flight

It’s unclear whether the CAAC’s ruling also bans the use of them during flights. But, more and more airlines across Asia are banning passengers from charging devices via power banks while in the air. That precaution follows a string of in-flight battery incidents.

May 2025 saw a China Southern Airlines flight from Hangzhou to Shenzhen turn back after smoke was detected from a passenger’s camera battery and power bank. Two months earlier, a Hong Kong Airlines flight was diverted because of a fire in the overhead locker.

Safety concerns behind the move

Safety fears are a key driver behind the crackdown. They, along with faulty batteries, can overheat and catch fire, a risk airlines are taking increasingly seriously. Even major brands like Anker have recently recalled batches of power banks over safety concerns.

What to do if travelling in China

• Check for the 3C (CCC) logo before packing it
• Prepare to give it up, or if in doubt, leave it at home
• Use in-seat charging on flights if available or carry a smaller, certified power bank
• Charge your device before heading to the airport

2PAXfly Takeout

If you’re flying within China or departing internationally from China, and your power bank doesn’t have 3C certification, forget it, it’s not going to travel. Battery safety rules on aircraft are constantly changing, so check the advice of the airlines you are travelling with. Keep checking their advice throughout your travels. It may change while you are away.

If you carry all your essential tickets and itinerary, and travel information on your phone, you might consider retaining paper copies, just in case your device dies due to powerlessness.