Ibom Air said that it has fully adopted the recent safety directive from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) regarding the carriage and use of power banks on commercial flights, reaffirming the airline’s unwavering commitment to passenger and crew safety.
The NCAA directive, which was issued in line with global aviation safety standards, introduces a critical new restriction.
The directive prohibits passengers from placing power banks in the overhead bins (hat racks) and that all power banks must now be carried in cabin luggage and stored either in the seat pocket in front of the passenger, under the seat, or in a carry-on bag kept within easy reach throughout the flight.
The prohibition of power banks in checked baggage remains in effect, consistent with the airline’s long-standing policy on lithium battery devices, similar to laptops and other electronics.
According to the NCAA Safety Directive, “Power banks must not be placed in the overhead luggage bins during flight. They must be carried in the cabin and stored either under the seat in front, in the seat pocket, or in a carry-on bag that remains accessible to the passenger at all times.”
This measure, the airline said ensures that in the event of overheating or fire, cabin crew can respond immediately.
Ibom Air explained that under the new regulations, power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are permitted without restriction.
However, power banks ranging from 100Wh to 160Wh require prior approval from the airline before travel.
The airline further explained that devices exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited on board aircraft.
The airline advised passengers to check their power bank’s watt-hour rating before travel, which is usually printed on the device.
Ibom Air said that the directive followed a series of global incidents involving lithium battery fires that have highlighted the potential dangers of power banks in the aviation environment.
Lithium-ion batteries, when overheated or damaged, can enter a state known as “thermal runaway,” causing them to ignite fires that are extremely difficult to control, particularly at 35,000 feet where emergency response options are limited.
It added that storing these devices in overhead bins delays detection and access, increasing the risk of catastrophic fire spread before cabin crew can intervene.
These incidents, the airline pointed out reinforce the critical need for strict adherence to safety protocols governing lithium battery devices.
Ibom Air noted that safety being one of its core values, it fully supports the NCAA’s directive on power bank carriage.
The emphasised that the safety of passengers and crew remains the airline’s highest priority, stressing that Ibom Air will continue to work closely with regulatory authorities to ensure full compliance with all safety directives.
The carrier encouraged passengers to visit www.ibomair.com for more information on permitted items and travel guidelines
About The Author
