Honest. Updated 2026. No affiliate links.
China’s domestic flight power bank rules require a clear CCC mark, also called a 3C mark. A power bank that flew into China without a problem may still be stopped when you take a domestic flight from Beijing to Shanghai.
| Check | What you need |
|---|---|
| CCC mark | Clear and visible |
| Recall status | Not a recalled model or batch |
| Capacity | Up to 100Wh is simplest |
| Packing | Carry-on only—never checked |
| During the flight | Keep it off and do not use it |
| Storage | Keep it accessible and follow crew instructions |
What changed on China domestic flights?
Since June 28, 2025, passengers cannot carry power banks without a CCC mark, with an unclear CCC mark, or belonging to a recalled model or batch on domestic flights in China.
A power bank accepted on your international flight into China may still fail security on a Beijing → Shanghai or Shanghai → Chengdu flight.
The CCC mark means China Compulsory Certification and normally appears on the back or base. A European CE mark does not replace it.
What airport security checks
Security may take the power bank out of your bag and look for:
- A clear CCC or 3C mark
- A visible capacity or watt-hour rating
- A readable model number
- Swelling, cracks or other physical damage
- A model or batch included in a product recall
🐷 Bao’s tip: Turn your power bank over before leaving home. Finding out that the label has rubbed off is easier at home than at airport security.
Why China requires the CCC mark
Power banks contain lithium-ion cells. A defective, damaged or overheated cell can enter thermal runaway—a rapid temperature rise that may cause smoke, fire or repeated reignition.
CCC certification became mandatory for newly manufactured, sold and imported power banks in August 2024. It sets a safety and traceability baseline. After battery recalls and multiple in-flight smoke and fire incidents in 2025, the Civil Aviation Administration of China tightened the boarding rule.
A CCC mark does not guarantee zero risk. It confirms mandatory certification and helps identify recalled models.
Does the CCC mark need a QR code in 2026?
Not always. QR-coded CCC marks began rolling out in March 2026, but older compliant products may still have the previous mark.
Why the battery must stay in the cabin
Power banks must travel in the cabin, not in checked luggage.
If a battery overheats or produces smoke in the cabin, passengers can alert the crew and the crew can respond. A battery problem inside the cargo hold is harder to identify and reach.
Air China and China Eastern also instruct passengers not to place power banks overhead. Keep yours under the seat, in the seat-back pocket or wherever the crew directs.
How large can your power bank be?
Airlines measure batteries in watt-hours, written as Wh.
| Rated energy | Rule |
|---|---|
| Up to 100Wh | Usually allowed without airline approval |
| Over 100Wh and up to 160Wh | Airline approval required; maximum two |
| Over 160Wh | Not allowed |
A typical 10,000mAh or 20,000mAh travel power bank is often below 100Wh, but check the actual Wh rating printed on the device. If the rated energy cannot be confirmed, security may reject it.
Can you use it during the flight?
No. Keep the power bank switched off.
Do not use it to charge another device, recharge it from the aircraft’s power supply or leave its power switch on. If it feels hot, begins swelling, smells unusual or produces smoke, notify the cabin crew immediately.
Your 30-second pre-flight check
- Find the CCC mark.
- Check that the label is readable.
- Find the Wh rating—up to 100Wh is easiest.
- Inspect the casing for swelling, cracks or damage.
- Check the model against current recall notices.
- Pack it in your carry-on, somewhere easy to reach.
- Keep it off throughout the flight.
If there is no CCC mark, replace the power bank before reaching the airport. Disposal or temporary-storage services vary by airport.
Common questions
Does this apply to international flights leaving China?
The June 2025 CCC restriction specifically covers domestic flights within China. Other lithium-battery and airline rules still apply internationally.
Is a 20,000mAh power bank allowed?
Often yes, if its printed rated energy is no more than 100Wh, it has a clear CCC mark and it is not recalled.
Can it go inside my cabin suitcase?
It can travel in carry-on baggage, but some airlines require it to remain under the seat or in another accessible location rather than in the overhead compartment.
The honest version
For a domestic flight in China, bring a power bank with a clear CCC mark, a readable rating of 100Wh or less, and no damage or recall notice.
Carry it in the cabin, keep it within reach and do not use it during the flight. The goal is to keep any battery problem visible, reachable and manageable.
For flight booking and choosing between flying and high-speed rail, read Getting Around China Without Losing Your Mind.
Honest. Updated October 2026. No affiliate links.