China Bans Non-3C Power Banks on Flights Departing Mainland Airports
Effective June 28, 2025, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has banned passengers and crew from carrying power banks without 3C markings, unclear 3C markings, or recalled models on all business aviation flights departing from mainland China.
While non-compliant power banks may be brought into China, they will likely be prohibited from being carried onboard when departing the country.
Multiple incidents involving lithium battery products catching fire and emitting smoke onboard have occurred since the beginning of 2025. Leading power bank manufacturers have recalled multiple product batches due to safety risks, prompting Chinese regulators to revoke or suspend 3C certifications for numerous manufacturers.
What’s Prohibited
Power banks are banned if they have:
- No 3C logo markings
- Unclear or unreadable 3C logo markings
- Recalled models or batches subject to manufacturer recalls
Note: Power banks with international safety certifications such as UL are not accepted substitutes for the required 3C mark. Only devices clearly bearing a valid 3C certification label will be permitted through airport security in mainland China.
Impact on Operations
- Crew members are subject to the same restrictions as passengers and must ensure their personal power banks comply with 3C certification requirements.
- Security inspection departments at all airports will strengthen inspection of power banks to prevent unqualified devices from being carried onboard.
- Temporary storage facilities will be available at airports for passengers and crew to abandon or temporarily store non-compliant power banks.
- Operational Recommendation
Business aviation operators should advise passengers and crew members not to bring power banks without or with unclear 3C markings into China at entry ports to avoid security check failures when departing from Chinese airports.
While the regulation applies to departures, bringing in non-compliant power banks may result in delays, confiscation, or denied boarding at departure.
Background
You can read the full CAAC bulletin here.
