The Russian Embassy in China announced on Sunday via social media that two Russian citizens were arrested in China for smoking on an airplane during the New Year holiday.
The Russian Embassy in China reminded that according to Chinese law, smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the entire flight, including the use of e-cigarettes and so-called "vapor cigarettes," to ensure safety on board. This ban applies throughout the entire flight (taxiing, takeoff, cruising, landing) and all areas on the aircraft, including the lavatory.
The Russian Embassy in China pointed out that smoking on an airplane is a serious violation of the law, which may result in administrative detention for 5 to 15 days, large fines, and being placed on a "blacklist," potentially leading to a one-year ban from flying with Chinese airlines.
Comment: Regardless of nationality or status, safety rules in the special public space of an aircraft are red lines that cannot be crossed. The strict management of smoking on board in China is neither a "special treatment" targeting specific groups nor a temporary measure, but rather a rigid regulation based on public safety. This point has already been recognized in the international civil aviation field.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1854021514365192/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author alone.