Photo: 123rf
Passengers taking domestic flights in China have been banned from carrying uncertified power banks due to concerns over potential safety risks.
International passengers with connecting domestic flights in China would also be expected to comply with the ban, a customer service representative from China Southern Airlines told RNZ.
In a statement posted on its website, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said passengers on domestic flights were prohibited from carrying power banks that lacked a China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark as well as devices that had been recalled or had been identified as being non-compliant from 28 June.
The CCC mark is a mandatory safety and quality certificate required for products sold in China.
Electrical devices bearing the mark have met certain standards relating to safety, reliability and environmental protection that should prevent hazards such as fires, electrical shocks and harm to health and the environment.
According to China's aviation agency, power banks and other lithium battery products were believed to be behind several incidents on flights this year, either catching fire or emitting smoke.
As a result, some power bank models had been recalled, the agency said.
At the same time, the agency said the State Administration for Market Regulation had also revoked or suspended CCC certifications for some power bank and battery cell manufacturers.
The agency said airport security departments in China had been asked to strengthen inspection procedures and prevent uncertified or substandard power banks from being brought onto flights.
