Oman Air has introduced updated safety guidelines for passengers carrying lithium batteries, power banks, smart bags, and e-cigarettes, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring safe and smooth travel operations. When travelling via Oman Air, it is essential for passengers to follow specific safety guidelines to ensure compliance with airline and aviation authority regulations.
## Safety Guidelines for Power Banks
When bringing power banks, it is essential to pack them in hand luggage. Oman Air strictly prohibits carrying power banks in checked baggage due to the potential fire hazards associated with lithium batteries. Additionally, power banks must not be used or charged during the flight to minimize the risk of overheating or fire.
### Handling Damaged or Unlabelled Power Banks
Damaged or unlabelled power banks are not allowed on board Oman Air flights. Passengers should check the condition of their power banks before travelling and dispose of any damaged or unlabelled ones. Meanwhile, properly labelled power banks provide clear information about their capacity and safety features, making it easier for airline staff to assess their safety.
## Guidelines for Smart Bags and Lithium Batteries
Smart bags with non-removable lithium batteries are not accepted as checked baggage on Oman Air flights. However, if the battery is removable, passengers can check in the bag after taking out the battery, which must then be carried in the cabin. This policy helps mitigate the risks associated with lithium batteries in checked luggage.
### Ensuring Compliance for Smart Bags
To comply with Oman Air’s policy, passengers with smart bags should check if the battery can be removed. If it can, removing it before check-in and carrying it in hand luggage is a simple step to ensure a smooth travel experience. However, if the battery is non-removable, it may be best to consider alternative luggage options that meet the airline’s safety guidelines.
## Policies for E-Cigarettes and Vapes
E-cigarettes and vapes are permitted in hand luggage but are not allowed to be used or charged on board Oman Air flights. This policy is in place to prevent any potential fire hazards and to comply with aviation regulations regarding the use of electronic devices during flights. Passengers are advised to pack their e-cigarettes and vapes securely in their hand luggage and refrain from using them during the flight.
### Charging Personal Electronic Devices
While certain devices like power banks and e-cigarettes cannot be charged during a flight, passengers can charge their personal electronic devices (PEDs) such as phones and tablets using the aircraft’s charging ports. It is essential to keep these devices under supervision while they are charging to ensure safety. Additionally, loose batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes should not be charged during the flight.
## Prohibited Items: Lithium Battery-Powered Devices
Oman Air has a strict policy against carrying lithium battery-powered personal transportation devices, including hoverboards, balance wheels, and mini-scooters, either as checked or carry-on luggage. These devices pose a significant fire risk due to their lithium batteries, and prohibiting them helps maintain a safe environment for all passengers on board.
## Conclusion
Oman Air’s safety guidelines for lithium batteries, smart bags, e-cigarettes, and related items reflect the airline’s dedication to the safety and comfort of its passengers. By understanding and complying with these guidelines, travellers can enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey. If you are planning a trip with Oman Air, it is advisable to review the airline’s safety policies and pack accordingly to avoid any inconvenience at check-in or during the flight. Ensuring that your travel preparations align with Oman Air’s policies is key to a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Furthermore, Oman Air remains committed to enhancing its safety measures by regularly updating its policies to align with the latest aviation standards and regulations, providing passengers with peace of mind as they travel to their destinations. As a passenger, staying informed about these policies not only helps in complying with the regulations but also contributes to a safer flying environment for everyone on board.
