CAAC

For 2026, the CAAC has consolidated the following directives:

• Full Digitalization (Unified E-Ticket): Mandatory implementation of facial biometric identification systems for boarding domestic flights at all 4E and 4F category airports, eliminating the need for physical boarding passes.
• Long-Haul Flight Regulation and Sustainability: Introduction of new carbon emission reduction targets with tax incentives for airlines operating aircraft using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
• Punctuality Protocols: Revised delay compensation rules; in 2026, the focus is on proactive notification via AI systems, requiring airlines to offer real-time re-accommodation alternatives through apps integrated with CAAC systems.
• Cybersecurity: New rigorous guidelines for the protection of passengers' personal data, in compliance with China’s Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL).

The CAAC requires absolute transparency in price displays.

• Transparency: Airlines are required to display the total ticket price (including taxes and surcharges) at the time of inquiry.
• Baggage Allowance: There is no mandatory national standard for free allowance, which is left to the airline's discretion, but the CAAC requires the policy to be clear at the time of booking.
• Prohibitions: Severe restrictions on lithium batteries and power banks (maximum capacity of 160Wh, strictly limited to carry-on baggage only). Smart luggage with non-removable batteries is prohibited in both the cabin and the cargo hold.

Pet transport in the cabin is restricted and varies by carrier, with transport in the cargo hold being the prevailing norm.

• Health Regulations: Presentation of a vaccination certificate (especially for rabies) and a quarantine certificate issued by the local veterinary authority is mandatory.
• Flight Requirements: The CAAC mandates that animals must be in an approved container (IATA *Live Animals Regulations*). In 2026, the agency reinforced requirements for temperature and ventilation monitoring in cargo holds for the transport of live animals.
• Exceptions: Trained service/assistance dogs are guaranteed entry into the cabin, provided they have official training documentation and identification.

• Seating: The CAAC strongly recommends that families with children under 12 years of age be seated together. In 2026, regulations began requiring airlines to perform automatic pre-allocation of adjacent seats at no extra charge for minors under 14 accompanied by adults.
• Equipment: Foldable strollers are generally allowed up to the aircraft door (subject to cargo hold capacity). Car seats (baby seats) must be certified by the CAAC or equivalent international standards for onboard use.
• Bassinets: Available on long-haul international flights, subject to advance reservation (minimum 48h).

• Obligations: Airlines and airports are required to provide ground assistance (wheelchairs, assistance with check-in and boarding) at no additional cost, provided it is requested 48 hours in advance.
• MEDIF: For passengers with medical conditions, a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) must be completed and validated by the airline between 48h and 72h before the flight.
• Priority: The CAAC maintains a "Priority to the Vulnerable" policy, ensuring priority boarding for the elderly, people with disabilities, and passengers with reduced mobility, guaranteeing assistance with carry-on baggage and help with the installation of assistive devices.

• CAAC (Civil Aviation Administration of China) - Main Portal: http://www.caac.gov.cn/en/
• Safety and Passenger Transport Regulations: http://www.caac.gov.cn/en/SZ/
• Department of Transport (Passenger Policies): http://www.caac.gov.cn/en/XWZX/
• Consumer Rights Inquiry (CAAC Consumer Affairs): http://www.caac.gov.cn/en/SY/