Travelers heading to China should be aware of new regulations concerning the transport of power banks on domestic flights within the country. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued a warning to passengers to check these updated rules to avoid any inconvenience during their journey. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), new mandatory measures have been in effect since June 28, 2025, requiring all power banks to bear the China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark to be allowed on board domestic flights.
This certification is a safety standard that ensures the power banks meet China’s strict requirements. Without the CCC mark, power banks may be rejected at airport security checkpoints, potentially disrupting travel plans. The CAAT advises all passengers traveling to China, especially those with connecting domestic flights, to verify with their airlines beforehand that their power banks comply with the new regulations.
In addition to the CCC certification requirement, the CAAC maintains a strict prohibition on carrying lithium batteries or power banks in checked luggage. These devices must only be carried in hand luggage, and this rule is rigorously enforced to prevent safety hazards on board aircraft. The new rules apply exclusively to domestic flights within China, and enforcement details might vary slightly between different airports.
The CAAT’s alert comes amid a broader tightening of regulations on portable power devices across Asia. For instance, Hong Kong has banned the use of power banks on flights starting July 7, 2025, while South Korea has imposed restrictions on the quantity and types of power banks allowed on flights since January 1 of the same year. These moves reflect growing concerns about the safety risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, which have been linked to fires and explosions on aircraft.
Passengers planning to enter China and then take domestic flights within the country are urged to contact their airlines in advance. This preemptive step is crucial to ensure that their electronic devices, including power banks, meet the CCC certification requirements and other safety standards. Failure to comply could result in confiscation of devices or denied boarding, causing significant travel disruptions.
The CAAT’s announcement highlights the importance of staying informed about evolving travel regulations, especially in a rapidly changing landscape of aviation safety rules. While the CCC mark requirement might seem like a minor detail, it can have major implications for travelers who rely on portable power sources for their smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
For those unfamiliar, the China Compulsory Certification (CCC) is a mandatory safety mark for many products imported, sold, or used in the Chinese market. It is similar to other international safety certifications but tailored to China’s regulatory environment. Power banks without this mark are considered non-compliant and are therefore barred from being carried on domestic flights.
The CAAT’s advisory also serves as a reminder that regulations can differ significantly between countries and even between airports within the same country. Travelers should not assume that rules applicable in one place will automatically apply elsewhere. Checking with airlines and official aviation authorities is the best way to stay ahead of such changes.
In summary, the key points for travelers to China are clear: ensure your power bank has the CCC certification if you plan to carry it on domestic flights, never pack lithium batteries or power banks in checked baggage, and confirm with your airline before travel to avoid surprises. These steps will help maintain safety onboard and keep your travel plans running smoothly.
As electronic devices become ever more integral to daily life and travel, regulations like these emphasize the balance between convenience and safety. While it may be frustrating to deal with additional checks or restrictions, these measures aim to protect passengers and crew from potential hazards.
Ultimately, the CAAT’s warning is a timely reminder that international travel demands careful preparation, especially regarding electronic devices and batteries. Following these guidelines will ensure a safer flight experience and prevent unexpected delays or confiscations at airport security.
