Ibom Air has issued a new directive, banning passengers from placing power banks in overhead luggage compartments.
This is in line with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Safety Directive restricting how power banks are carried on commercial flights, reaffirming its commitment to passenger and crew safety.
The devices must be carried in the cabin and kept within easy reach, either in a seat pocket, under the seat in front, or inside a carry-on bag.
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 ensures that in the event of overheating or fire, cabin crew can respond immediately.
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 and passengers are advised to confirm the watt-hour rating of their devices before travel.
