Air regulator issues warning about Samsung smartphone
Air passengers are being warned not to use Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones on planes after reports of the devices exploding.
The Federal Aviation Administration in the US has told passengers not to switch on or charge their Samsung Galaxy Note 7 phones when on board and has also advised against stowing them in checked-in luggage.
Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin Australia have already banned passengers from using the Galaxy Note 7 on flights following Samsung’s decision to recall the phones.
Although customers will still be able to bring the phones on flights, they are not allowed to charge or use them during the flight.
Samsung has blamed battery problems for the fires and has recalled the smartphones in 10 markets.
The FAA said: "In light of recent incidents and concerns raised by Samsung about its Galaxy Note 7 devices, the Federal Aviation Administration strongly advises passengers not to turn on or charge these devices on board aircraft and not to stow them in any checked baggage."
A spokesman for the Civil Aviation Authority said it was speaking to airlines to see if they wanted a similar directive to be issued for UK passengers.
"We’re working with the UK operators to make sure they’re aware of what the FAA has said but we’re not aware of any UK operators issuing any specific advice. It’s something we’re keen to discuss with them," he said.
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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