Travellers visiting China may face the risk of having their battery packs confiscated at major airports in the country. Paul Goldsack shared his experience of witnessing numerous power banks being seized at Shanghai Pudong and Beijing Capital airports during security checks. Chinese airports now enforce strict regulations requiring all power banks to bear a CCC-approved label, with non-compliant devices being confiscated without exceptions.
The power bank restriction in China mandates a 3C certification label for all power banks on domestic flights, a rule that came into effect in June 2025. Most power banks sold internationally do not meet this certification, leading to confiscation at departure. Additionally, power banks exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited, while those between 101-160 Wh require airline approval. It is crucial to carry power banks in hand luggage with clear wattage and capacity markings visible.
In recent years, several airlines have banned the use of power banks on flights due to safety concerns. Moreover, Taiwanese airlines like EVA Air, UNI Air, and Tigerair have prohibited placing Bluetooth earbuds, including Apple AirPods, in checked luggage due to the risk of lithium battery-related fires. Similarly, the New Zealand Aviation Authority strictly prohibits packing AirPods and wireless earbuds in checked luggage.
Passengers are advised to carry wireless earbuds and AirPods in their carry-on luggage, with a limit of 20 spare batteries or power banks unless specified by the airline. Some airlines, such as Air New Zealand, explicitly state that wireless earbud chargers should only be in carry-on luggage and not in checked baggage, emphasizing safety precautions for all passengers.