Ibom Air has enforced the new safety directive issued by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) restricting how power banks are carried on commercial flights, reaffirming its commitment to passenger and crew safety.
Under the directive, passengers are no longer permitted to place power banks in overhead luggage compartments.
Daily Trust reports that according to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (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 ensures that in the event of overheating or fire, cabin crew can respond immediately.
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The long-standing prohibition on packing power banks in checked baggage remains in force, in line with existing regulations governing lithium battery-powered devices.
The authority said the measure aligns with global aviation safety standards and is designed to enable swift response in the event of overheating or fire.
Power banks rated up to 100 watt-hours are allowed without restriction, while those between 100 and 160 watt-hours require prior airline approval.
Devices exceeding 160 watt-hours are strictly banned. Passengers are advised to confirm the watt-hour rating of their devices before travel.
The directive follows global incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires, which have underscored the risks posed by thermal runaway, a condition that can cause batteries to ignite and spread rapidly, particularly in flight where emergency options are limited.
Ibom Air said it is working closely with regulators to ensure strict adherence to the new rules, stressing that safety remains its top priority.
The airline said, "Safety being one of its core values, Ibom Air fully supports the NCAA's directive on power bank carriage. The safety of passengers and crew remains the airline's highest priority. Ibom Air continues to work closely with regulatory authorities to ensure full compliance with all safety directives."
