In 2025, China is set to join several countries, including the US, Canada, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, and Ireland, in implementing stricter power bank and battery regulations. This move comes in response to growing safety concerns over lithium-ion battery-related incidents, such as fires and explosions, particularly during air travel. As more passengers carry power banks and electronic devices onboard, these enhanced regulations aim to minimize risks and ensure a safer flying experience for all.

As part of global efforts to enhance aviation safety, China is set to implement stricter regulations on the use of power banks and lithium batteries in 2025, joining a growing list of countries that have already taken similar actions. These regulations, which aim to mitigate the risks associated with lithium battery-powered devices, will impact travelers worldwide as they move through airports and board flights.

Growing Concern Over Battery-Related Incidents

In recent years, incidents involving lithium batteries, particularly power banks, have raised significant safety concerns. There have been reports of power banks catching fire or even exploding, leading to fires onboard airplanes. These incidents prompted global regulatory bodies, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), to tighten safety guidelines. The increased focus on power bank regulations reflects the growing need to address these safety risks, especially as air travel continues to rebound and the use of electronic devices onboard increases.

New Power Bank Regulations in China

In 2025, China will join the ranks of countries like the US, Canada, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, and Ireland in implementing tighter rules for power bank and battery transportation. One of the key measures China will introduce is the prohibition of carrying power banks without Chinese safety certification markings. Additionally, power banks that have been recalled by manufacturers due to safety concerns will also be banned from being carried onboard.

The US and Canada Lead the Charge

The United States and Canada were among the first to implement robust regulations on power banks and lithium batteries. In both countries, passengers are required to carry power banks in their carry-on luggage, and they are prohibited from placing them in checked baggage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US and Transport Canada have set clear capacity limits on the power banks that can be carried onboard, with strict restrictions on the watt-hour ratings. These regulations are designed to minimize the risk of battery-related fires during flight.

South Korea Strengthens Regulations

South Korea has been particularly proactive in strengthening its regulations regarding lithium batteries and power banks. Following a fire on an Air Busan flight in January 2025, which was linked to an onboard power bank, South Korea introduced new rules that require passengers to carry power banks on their person rather than in overhead bins. Additionally, the new regulations restrict the use and charging of power banks during flights, emphasizing the importance of keeping these devices secured and in sight throughout the journey.

Japan and Hong Kong Follow Suit

Japan, while not introducing entirely new regulations in 2025, continues to adhere to ICAO guidelines. Passengers flying from Japan are required to carry power banks in their carry-on luggage and are prohibited from using or charging them during the flight unless otherwise approved by the airline.

In Hong Kong, the Civil Aviation Department has introduced a ban on the use of power banks during flights, starting from April 7, 2025. This regulation will also prohibit passengers from charging their power banks using in-seat power sources, making it necessary for travelers to store their power banks securely in their carry-on baggage. These measures are intended to minimize the risks associated with charging devices that may overheat or malfunction while in use.

Singapore Implements a Strict Ban

Singapore has taken a firm stance on the matter, with Singapore Airlines and budget carrier Scoot implementing a ban on using or charging power banks onboard flights from April 1, 2025. While passengers can still bring power banks in their carry-on bags, they are prohibited from using them to charge other devices or charging the power banks themselves during the flight. This regulation aims to reduce the chances of overheating and other potential safety hazards.

The United Kingdom and Ireland

Although the United Kingdom and Ireland have not introduced entirely new regulations for 2025, airlines operating in these countries continue to adhere to existing rules set by ICAO and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). These guidelines prohibit power banks in checked baggage and impose limits on the size and number of power banks passengers can carry in their hand luggage. Airlines in both countries are also expected to follow stricter protocols to ensure the safe transport of these devices.

Other Countries Tighten Their Grip

Several other nations have joined the global movement to regulate power banks and lithium batteries. Countries like Taiwan, Thailand, and Malaysia have already introduced or are in the process of implementing bans on the use and charging of power banks during flights. In Indonesia, Batik Air has taken action by prohibiting the use of power banks during flights and requiring passengers to store them securely in their carry-on luggage.

China’s decision to step up its regulations mirrors the global trend of tightening safety measures to protect both passengers and flight crews from potential hazards. These actions reflect a broader effort to prioritize aviation safety as the number of electronic devices carried by passengers continues to rise.

The Impact on Travelers

For travelers, these new regulations mean that there will be more restrictions and considerations when packing power banks and other electronic devices for air travel. Passengers will need to ensure that their power banks comply with the specified capacity limits, have the appropriate safety certifications, and are stored correctly in their carry-on luggage. As a result, passengers are encouraged to stay informed about the specific regulations in place for their departure and arrival airports.

The Bigger Picture

The global push for stricter power bank and battery regulations is part of a broader movement to enhance safety in the aviation sector. With more travelers relying on electronic devices for work and entertainment, the industry is taking proactive steps to ensure that safety concerns are addressed before they escalate into serious incidents. These regulations are a reminder that, as technology continues to evolve, safety measures must also adapt to keep pace.

In 2025, China will join countries like the US, Canada, and Japan in implementing stricter power bank and battery regulations due to rising safety concerns over lithium-ion battery incidents during air travel.

Conclusion

In 2025, China will join a growing list of countries that have enacted tougher regulations on power banks and lithium batteries. This global trend reflects increasing concerns about the safety risks posed by these devices, particularly in the context of air travel. As countries like the US, Canada, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK, Ireland, and others implement stricter rules, passengers will need to be more diligent in adhering to these guidelines to ensure a safe and smooth flight experience.

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