 "A model poses for photographs with a Galaxy Note 7 new smartphone during its launching ceremony in Seoul, South Korea. Photo: Reuters")
If you are an owner who gets hold of a Samsung Galaxy Note 7, you cannot switch it on while flying in an Indian aircraft. India has followed the lead from USA and Australia to ban the use of the mobile device over concerns of the device's battery exploding or catching fire.
India’s aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation on Friday asked passengers not to charge or switch on the device on board the aircraft. The advisory issued to airlines and passenger says: “In light of recent incidents involving battery issue with Samsung about its Galaxy Note 7 devices globally, travelling public and airlines are advised not to turn on or charge the mobile phone on board the aircraft."
It also prohibited carrying it in checked-in baggage. A passenger can however carry it in hand luggage in switched off mode.
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 the aircraft and not to stow them in any checked baggage.
But how will the regulator ensure compliance with the order? A senior DGCA official said: “The notice is for safety of aircraft operations and occupants on board. So travelling public will have to ensure that they comply with this. Also airlines have been advised to keep a check on this.”
After incidents of the battery catching fire was reported, Samsung decided to order a recall of the product and consequently delaying sales in India.
“This is a very positive step from the Indian regulator; it has finally started responding to external factors that are consumer centric. In countries like Dubai, the aviation regulator issues travel advisories during outbreak of diseases, DGCA can slowly aspire to play such a role,” said Mark Martin of Dubai-based consultancy firm Martin Consultancy Llc
US air safety regulator Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had yesterday taken a similar in regards to the device
“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,” the statement from FAA read. Australian airlines like Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Tiger Airways have themselves prohibited the use of the device on board flights.
Meanwhile, a Samsung India spokesperson said: "We are aware of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation notice. Consumer safety and peace of mind are our top priority. Galaxy Note7 sales have not started in India, and we have delayed sales to alleviate any safety concerns. We plan to expedite new shipments of Galaxy Note7 soon to reduce any inconvenience for our customers."
Meanwhile, a Samsung India spokesperson said: "We are aware of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation notice. Consumer safety and peace of mind are our top priority. Galaxy Note7 sales have not started in India, and we have delayed sales to alleviate any safety concerns. We plan to expedite new shipments of Galaxy Note7 soon to reduce any inconvenience for our customers."
