The Chinese Civil Aviation Administration has announced an unexpected ban on specific portable batteries from flights, effective immediately. This decision, communicated just two days prior, has taken many travelers by surprise as they discovered at airports that their batteries were not permitted onboard. The ban is a response to increasing safety concerns surrounding portable batteries, many of which have been recently recalled due to fire hazards.
This year, several countries have imposed stricter regulations on portable battery usage in flights, yet China's approach is notably more restrictive. Unlike other regions that mostly recommend guidelines for usage and storage, China outright prohibits certain batteries that lack a valid Chinese safety certification.
The aviation authority highlighted the risk posed by these batteries, referencing recent fire incidents and recalls by manufacturers. The surge in safety concerns prompted actions against battery manufacturers, leading to certification suspensions and revocations.
Just weeks prior to the ban, two major battery companies in China recalled millions of power banks due to potential fire hazards linked to faulty lithium-ion cells. Anker, a leading battery maker, recalled over a million devices in the U.S. and significant quantities in China, while another firm, Romoss, withdrew nearly 500,000 products due to similar issues.
Travelers are now urged to check their batteries before flying to avoid last-minute issues at security checks. As the aviation industry continues to navigate the complexities of battery safety, passengers should stay informed about the latest regulations before their next flight.
This year, several countries have imposed stricter regulations on portable battery usage in flights, yet China's approach is notably more restrictive. Unlike other regions that mostly recommend guidelines for usage and storage, China outright prohibits certain batteries that lack a valid Chinese safety certification.
The aviation authority highlighted the risk posed by these batteries, referencing recent fire incidents and recalls by manufacturers. The surge in safety concerns prompted actions against battery manufacturers, leading to certification suspensions and revocations.
Just weeks prior to the ban, two major battery companies in China recalled millions of power banks due to potential fire hazards linked to faulty lithium-ion cells. Anker, a leading battery maker, recalled over a million devices in the U.S. and significant quantities in China, while another firm, Romoss, withdrew nearly 500,000 products due to similar issues.
Travelers are now urged to check their batteries before flying to avoid last-minute issues at security checks. As the aviation industry continues to navigate the complexities of battery safety, passengers should stay informed about the latest regulations before their next flight.
