The aviation cargo transport sector in China is poised for significant transformation with the upcoming implementation of the new Civil Aviation Cargo Transport Management Regulations , effective December 1, 2024. These comprehensive rules aim to establish a more standardized transport management system, enhance safety protocols, and promote the healthy development of air cargo operations.
Core Objectives
The regulations primarily seek to standardize civil aviation cargo transport management while ensuring operational safety and sustainable industry growth. Formulated under the framework of China's Civil Aviation Law and Work Safety Law , the rules apply to all domestic cargo carriers, airport operators, ground service providers, and shippers operating within Chinese territory.
Key Impact: The regulations extend to foreign carriers and those from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan when operating flights involving mainland China, creating unified safety standards across all operators.
Regulatory Scope and Oversight
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) will serve as the primary regulatory body, ensuring compliance across all market participants. The rules establish clear responsibilities for various stakeholders, requiring carriers and ground service providers to maintain ethical business practices, engage in fair competition, and prioritize safety as their primary operational responsibility.
Shipper Responsibilities
Shippers must now provide accurate declarations of cargo contents, ensure proper classification and packaging, and submit complete, valid transport documentation. Agents acting on behalf of shippers must present proper authorization, while all parties are prohibited from transporting items banned by national regulations—with carriers bearing responsibility for thorough inspections.
Emergency Response Protocols
The regulations mandate priority handling for critical shipments such as disaster relief materials, reflecting the government's commitment to national security and public welfare during emergencies.
Digital Transformation
Embracing modern logistics trends, the rules encourage adoption of electronic documentation and signatures while requiring robust data protection measures. Transport records must be maintained for at least 24 months post-flight, with strict prohibitions against data falsification to ensure operational transparency.
Consumer Protection
Public carriers and ground service providers must establish effective complaint resolution mechanisms, creating accountability channels that simultaneously pressure operators to improve service quality while building consumer trust.
These sweeping reforms are expected to create a more standardized, competitive, and service-oriented aviation cargo ecosystem, marking a significant step forward in the industry's modernization.
