India, Etihad Airlines bans Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on flights

Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) prohibited the use of the Samsung Galaxy Note7 mobile phones onboard an aircraft following a series of incidents of the smartphone's battery exploding even as the company said it has delayed sales of the device to alleviate any safety concerns. 

 

"In the light of recent incidents involving battery issues with Samsung about its Galaxy Note 7 devices globally, travelling public and airlines are advised to ensure not to turn on or charge Galaxy Note 7 mobile phone on board the aircraft," Director General for Civil Aviation BS Bhullar said in a public notice.

The DGCA also advised travellers and air carriers not to stow them in any checked-in baggage. 

"We are aware of the notice. Consumer safety and peace of mind are our top priority. Galaxy Note 7 sales have not started in India, and we have delayed sales to alleviate any safety concerns," Samsung India spokesperson said in a statement. 

The company plans to expedite new shipments of Galaxy Note 7 soon to reduce any inconvenience to its customers, the statement added. 

Similarly, United Arab Emirate's Etihad Airways also temporarily banned the use of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on board its flights. 

"Following the global recall by Samsung of its Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones, Etihad Airways has, as a precautionary measure, enforced a temporary ban on the in-flight use and battery charging of these devices on all its flights until the issue is rectified by the manufacturer," the Abu Dhabi-based carrier said in a statement to AFP.

Samsung, the world's largest smartphone maker, said last week it was suspending sales of its latest flagship mobile device and recalling 2.5 million units shipped globally following reports of exploding "phablets" that dealt a severe blow to the firm's reputation. 

The US and Japanese aviation authorities today urged passengers not to turn on or charge Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones on aircraft. 

Qantas and Virgin Australia have issued similar warnings.

Samsung had last week recalled its Galaxy Note 7 devices after finding some of their batteries exploding or catching fire. It said it has confirmed 35 instances of the device catching fire or exploding.