Control of portable chargers strengthened on airplane

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Portable chargers are popular among busy travelers, but the safety concern behind the gadgets has led the Civil Aviation Administration of China to tighten up the control on which devices each passenger are allowed to carry.

According to the notice on the administration's website earlier today, portable batteries with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours are allowed in carry on luggage. Each passenger is allowed to carry no more than two portable batteries with a capacity between 100-160 watt-hours, and those above 160 watt-hours are prohibited on the plane.

If the capacity of a portable charger is not specified, it is also prohibited. Portable batteries are completely banned in checked luggage.

During the flight, portable chargers cannot be used and need to be switched off. The rules also apply to airline staff, according to the notice.

Last month, a sample inspection of portable chargers by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine showed that 100 percent of sampled products have safety risks, including the possibility of explosion due to a short circuit, potential damage to the charged gadgets and over charging capacity, according to nandu.com last month.

According to the survey, portable chargers have great market potential yet the manufacturing of portable chargers lacks national standards and inspection.