DGCA prohibits use of Samsung Galaxy Note7 onboard aircraft

Aviation regulator DGCA on Friday prohibited the use of 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 issue with Samsung about its Galaxy Note7 devices globally, travelling public and airlines are advised to ensure not to turn on or charge Galaxy Note7 mobile phone on board the aircraft," Director General for Civil Aviation B S Bhullar said in a public notice. The DGCA also advised travellers and air carriers not to stow them in any checked-in baggage.

The decision to prohibit use or carriage of Samsung Galaxy Note7 onboard has been taken for the safety of aircraft operations and its occupants, it said. "We are aware of the DGCA 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," Samsung India spokesperson said in a statement.

The company plans to expedite new shipments of Galaxy Note7 soon to reduce any inconvenience for its customers, the statement added. Samsung had last week recalled its Galaxy Note7 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.