Several Chinese airlines now permit passengers to use smartphones during flights after the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) relaxed its restrictions on in-flight mobile device use.
Hainan Airlines and China Eastern Airlines have updated their policies to allow passengers to power on mobile phones during flight. Hainan Airlines’ Jan. 17 Haikou (HAK)–Beijing (PEK) service was the first to formally implement the change.
Until recently, China’s aviation sector lagged behind many other regions: CAAC rules previously prohibited any use of mobile devices in flight, even when set to airplane mode. That blanket ban limited passengers who wanted to use onboard connectivity or handle work on smaller devices.
In September, the CAAC eased those restrictions and gave individual carriers the authority to set their own rules for smartphone use. This policy shift benefits business travelers and other passengers who prefer to access in-flight Wi-Fi on their phones rather than on laptops, and it aligns China’s practices more closely with global norms.
Airlines implementing the change are expected to publish specific guidance for passengers—such as when devices may be powered on, whether cellular connections must remain disabled, and how to use airline Wi‑Fi and entertainment systems safely. Travelers should check their carrier’s latest instructions before flying to ensure compliance with any operational or safety requirements.
The updated approach allows flexibility for carriers to balance convenience and safety. Cabin crew retain the authority to request devices be switched off or stowed during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing, or during any announcement where crew attention is essential. As more airlines adopt the new policy, passengers can anticipate a smoother onboard experience with easier access to communication and productivity tools.
Overall, this regulatory shift marks a notable step forward for in-flight connectivity in China, enabling passengers to make better use of smartphones for work, entertainment, and communication while airborne—subject to airline-specific rules and crew instructions.