Ibom Air has announced the full adoption of a recent safety directive issued by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority governing the carriage and use of power banks on commercial flights, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards for passengers and crew.
The directive, which aligns with global aviation safety regulations, introduces a key restriction prohibiting passengers from placing power banks in overhead luggage compartments during flights. Instead, the devices must be kept in the cabin and stored in easily accessible locations such as the seat pocket in front of the passenger, under the seat, or inside a carry-on bag that remains within reach throughout the journey.
Ibom Air explained that the long-standing prohibition on placing power banks in checked baggage remains in effect, consistent with safety policies governing lithium battery-powered devices, including laptops and other portable electronics.
Under the updated regulation, power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours are permitted on board without restriction. Devices with capacities between 100Wh and 160Wh may only be carried with prior approval from the airline, while power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited on aircraft.
The airline advised passengers to verify the watt-hour rating of their power banks before travelling, noting that the information is typically printed on the device.
According to the NCAA, the directive is designed to ensure that in the event of overheating or fire, cabin crew can quickly access and manage the device. Lithium-ion batteries used in power banks can pose significant safety risks if damaged or overheated, sometimes triggering a phenomenon known as thermal runaway that can lead to fire.
Aviation safety authorities globally have increasingly tightened regulations around lithium battery devices following a number of incidents involving onboard fires linked to such equipment. Storing power banks in overhead bins can delay detection and response, increasing the risk of fire spreading before cabin crew can intervene.
Ibom Air said the airline fully supports the regulator’s directive and will continue working closely with the aviation authority to ensure strict compliance with all safety guidelines aimed at protecting passengers and flight operations.
