Ibom Air has begun full implementation of the latest safety directive issued by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) restricting the carriage and in-flight storage of power banks, reaffirming its commitment to the safety of passengers and crew.
The implementation of the new safety protocols on the restrictions of carriage of power banks and similar gadgets was contained in an electronic message sent to media houses by the Manager, Marketing and Communications of Ibom Air Company on Tuesday in Uyo.
According to the statement, “the new directive, aligned with global aviation safety standards, prohibits passengers from placing power banks in overhead luggage compartments during flights services.
“Instead, travelers are required to carry the devices in the cabin and store them in the seat pocket in front of them, under the seat, or in a carry-on bag kept within easy reach throughout the journey.
“The long-standing ban on power banks in checked baggage remains unchanged, in line with regulations governing lithium battery-powered devices such as; laptops and other portable electronics”, the statement stated.
NCAA, further maintained that, power banks must not be stored in overhead bins at any time during flight operations adding that, the regulation is designed to ensure that, in the event of overheating or fire, cabin crew members can quickly access and contain the device.
It also stated that, under the revised guidelines, power banks rated up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are permitted without restriction. Devices with capacities between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval from the airline before travel, while those exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited onboard aircraft.
Advising that, passengers are to verify the watt-hour rating of their devices, typically indicated on the power bank label, before heading to the airport.
The directive by NCAA follows series of global incidents involving lithium-ion battery fires, which have underscored the potential hazards posed by such devices in flight.
Experts however warned that, lithium batteries can experience “thermal runaway” when damaged or overheated, a chain reaction that can result in intense fires that are particularly challenging to extinguish at cruising altitudes.
Aviation safety authorities also noted that, storing power banks in overhead compartments could delay detection of smoke or fire, increasing the risk of rapid fire spread before crew members can respond effectively.
Reiterating that, safety remains one of its core operational values, Ibom Air pledged full compliance with the NCAA directive and assured passengers of its continued collaboration with regulatory authorities to uphold the highest safety standards.
Passengers are encouraged to always consult the airline’s official website for detailed information on permitted items and updated travel guidelines ahead of their flights schedules.
