DGCA prohibits use of Samsung Galaxy Note7 onboard aircraft

New Delhi, Sep 9 (PTI) Aviation regulator DGCA todayprohibited the use of Samsung Galaxy Note7 mobile phonesonboard an aircraft following a series of incidents of thesmartphone’s battery exploding even as the company said it hasdelayed sales of the device to alleviate any safety concerns. "In the light of recent incidents involving battery issuewith Samsung about its Galaxy Note7 devices globally,travelling public and airlines are advised to ensure not toturn on or charge Galaxy Note7 mobile phone on board theaircraft," Director General for Civil Aviation B S Bhullarsaid in a public notice. The DGCA also advised travellers and air carriers not tostow them in any checked-in baggage. The decision to prohibit use or carriage of Samsung GalaxyNote7 onboard has been taken for the safety of aircraftoperations and its occupants, it said. "We are aware of the DGCA notice. Consumer safety andpeace of mind are our top priority. Galaxy Note7 sales havenot started in India, and we have delayed sales to alleviateany safety concerns," Samsung India spokesperson said in astatement. The company plans to expedite new shipments of GalaxyNote7 soon to reduce any inconvenience for its customers, thestatement added. Samsung had last week recalled its Galaxy Note7 devicesafter finding some of their batteries exploding or catchingfire. It said it has confirmed 35 instances of the devicecatching fire or exploding. PTI IASZMN