By now, most of us are aware of the new travel rule stating that power banks taken aboard domestic flights must have a CCC (or “3C”) rating and proper labeling.
So, what does this mean for you? Does having a 3C rating automatically allow you to carry a power bank on a flight? Where can you purchase power banks that comply with these regulations?
In this article, we’ll address these questions and more to clarify the new regulation and hopefully ease your travel experience.
First Things First: What Is the New Rule?
In simple terms, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has declared that starting July 28, 2025, passengers on domestic flights will not be allowed to bring power banks that do not display a “3C” label, have a vague or false label, or have been recalled.
You can view the official announcement in Chinese on the CAAC website. Currently, this regulation only applies to power banks.
What does the 3C label look like?
The 3C label consists of the letter C printed three times within an oval, indicating that a product has received a China Compulsory Certification (CCC) for meeting China’s stringent standards. From August 1, 2024, all power banks sold in China must display this mark. Selling power banks without the 3C label after this date will violate national production laws and regulations.
The label must be clear and valid. Power banks with unclear or dubious labels will be rejected and may be confiscated.
Alright, so if a power bank has a clear 3C label and isn’t recalled, it's okay to carry?
Not necessarily. There are also limits on charging capacity.
Power banks with a rating of 100Wh or less are allowed on the plane. Power banks rated between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval for carry-on. Power banks rated over 160Wh are prohibited.
Additionally, the CAAC restricts passengers to a maximum of two power banks on an aircraft, and power banks cannot be placed in checked luggage.
How can I check which 3C power banks have been recalled?
You can find recall announcements on the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) Defective Product Recall Technical Center (DPRC) website. Search for “移动电源” (mobile power supply) in the search bar on the top right of the page. You will also find details like product numbers, manufacturing dates, and recall quantities here.
You can use the QR codes provided below to access the DPRC’s pages on WeChat and Toutiao.
Alternatively, you can visit the website (or WeChat account or mini program, if applicable) of the power bank retailer you want to check.
Scanning the QR codes in the image below will direct you to the recall pages for Anker and ROMOSS, where you can input your power bank details to verify its recall status.
Are only domestic flights impacted?
As of now, yes. However, while we wait to see how this new rule unfolds, we advise you to assume that it applies to all flights.
Why? Firstly, it’s good practice to adapt to potential upgrades or extensions of the requirements. Secondly, some airports may have common security areas for domestic and international flights, meaning the new regulation will likely apply universally in these locations. Lastly, international travels often start or conclude with a domestic flight. It’s wise to be prepared.
What if I have a power bank that meets international standards but lacks a 3C label?
Unfortunately, at this moment, only power banks with a Chinese 3C label are compliant with the new regulations. We understand this is disappointing.
What should I do if I only have a non-3C power bank? What options are available for inspection, disposal, or storage at the airport?
Different airports may offer varying options and services. In Beijing, travelers might choose to voluntarily surrender their power bank or have it shipped home. There are also free storage facilities available for passengers to keep their power banks.
Beijing Capital International Airport has security staff and notices to inform travelers about the new regulation and provide further details. There is currently a power bank inspection booth prior to the domestic departures security area, where passengers can have security personnel check their power banks. Assistance for mailing is also available. The airport offers a complimentary storage service at Terminals 2 and 3 for up to seven days.
At Beijing Daxing International Airport, security service areas on levels 1 and 3 offer storage and mailing services, with secured storage facilities outside the terminal. Presently, all power banks sold within the airport comply with the 3C regulation.
What about other modes of transport?
As of this post's publication, there are no indications that security regulations regarding power banks on buses, trains, or subways have been updated. However, this could change at
We provide essential advice for air travel in line with the updated regulations on power banks.
