In a sudden move that took effect recently, China's Civil Aviation Administration announced a ban on specific portable batteries that lack the requisite safety certifications. The decision follows a series of recalls involving millions of these devices, as safety concerns mount globally. Many travelers have expressed frustration, finding themselves forced to dispose of their essential battery packs due to this unexpected prohibition.
The ban specifically targets batteries that do not carry a certification from the Chinese safety authority, as well as those that have been recalled. The aviation regulators underscored the dangers these batteries pose, referencing several recent incidents of fires on airplanes attributed to them. In light of these safety hazards, the market regulator has acted against several manufacturers by revoking or suspending their certifications.
This year has already seen a tightening of regulations regarding portable batteries by various airlines worldwide. However, the extent of China's ban stands out, as it completely bars certain batteries from being taken onboard. Just weeks prior to the ban, major manufacturers like Anker and Romoss had issued recalls due to problems attributed to their lithium-ion battery cells. Anker alone recalled over one million units in the U.S. and more than 700,000 in China, amid criticisms of safety precautions.
With the recent clampdown, travelers must now navigate these restrictions to avoid last-minute scrambles at the airport, reflecting the ongoing tension between convenience and safety in aviation practices.
Yan Zhuang is a journalist for Times based in Seoul focusing on breaking news stories.
The ban specifically targets batteries that do not carry a certification from the Chinese safety authority, as well as those that have been recalled. The aviation regulators underscored the dangers these batteries pose, referencing several recent incidents of fires on airplanes attributed to them. In light of these safety hazards, the market regulator has acted against several manufacturers by revoking or suspending their certifications.
This year has already seen a tightening of regulations regarding portable batteries by various airlines worldwide. However, the extent of China's ban stands out, as it completely bars certain batteries from being taken onboard. Just weeks prior to the ban, major manufacturers like Anker and Romoss had issued recalls due to problems attributed to their lithium-ion battery cells. Anker alone recalled over one million units in the U.S. and more than 700,000 in China, amid criticisms of safety precautions.
With the recent clampdown, travelers must now navigate these restrictions to avoid last-minute scrambles at the airport, reflecting the ongoing tension between convenience and safety in aviation practices.
Yan Zhuang is a journalist for Times based in Seoul focusing on breaking news stories.
