Ibom Air Moves Swiftly to Enforce NCAA Power Bank Safety Directive, Tightens Cabin Rules

Ibom Air has announced full compliance with a newly issued safety directive by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), reinforcing stricter rules on how passengers carry power banks aboard commercial flights.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, prohibits the placement of power banks in overhead luggage bins during flights. Instead, passengers are now required to keep the devices within easy reach in the cabin — either inside a seat pocket, under the seat in front of them, or inside a carry-on bag stored beneath the seat.
The existing prohibition on packing power banks in checked baggage remains firmly in place, consistent with international aviation regulations governing lithium battery-powered devices.
Strengthening In-Flight Safety
According to the NCAA, the updated guidelines align with global aviation safety standards and are intended to enhance rapid response capability in the unlikely event of overheating or fire incidents involving lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in power banks, have been associated with thermal runaway — a dangerous condition where excessive heat can trigger ignition and rapid fire spread. Aviation safety experts warn that such risks are particularly critical in-flight, where containment and emergency response options are limited compared to ground situations.
Under the new rules:
Power banks rated up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are allowed onboard without restriction.
Devices rated between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval from the airline before travel.
Any power bank exceeding 160Wh is strictly prohibited from carriage on passenger aircraft.
Passengers are advised to check the watt-hour rating of their devices before traveling to avoid delays, confiscation, or denied boarding.
Ibom Air Reaffirms Safety Commitment
In a statement, Ibom Air emphasized that passenger and crew safety remains its top operational priority. The airline confirmed it is working closely with regulators to ensure seamless implementation and strict enforcement of the directive across all its flights.
The carrier noted that proactive safety compliance is central to maintaining operational integrity and customer confidence, especially amid heightened global awareness of lithium battery-related incidents.
Global Context and Regulatory Vigilance
The NCAA’s directive follows a number of reported global aviation incidents linked to lithium-ion battery fires, prompting regulators worldwide to tighten handling procedures and onboard storage requirements.
Industry analysts say Nigeria’s swift regulatory alignment demonstrates its commitment to international best practices and strengthens the country’s aviation safety framework.
With the new measures now in effect, travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated rules ahead of departure to ensure smooth boarding procedures.
Ibom Air confirms full compliance with NCAA’s new safety directive banning overhead storage of power banks, reinforcing stricter in-flight lithium battery regulations.
Furthermore, enforces NCAA’s new power bank safety rules, banning overhead storage and tightening lithium battery regulations to enhance passenger and crew safety on Nigerian flights.