Samsung Galaxy Note 7 may be banned in flights, FAA thinking about it

Samsung immediately responded to the battery problem by issuing a recall and halting sales worldwide. It was welcomed by the mobile industry but as expected, not everyone is happy as Consumer Reports still wants Samsung to make an “official recall”. This move is currently costing the South Korean tech giant a “heartbreaking amount”. Estimates have reached about 2.5 million units.

Samsung wants to make sure the 35 cases of exploding or burning phones won’t increase. It may take a while before retailers and carriers receive and replace all phones that have shipped already. If you own one, you can still use it but now at your own risk. It’s advisable that you make the necessary and precautionary measures so the phone won’t blow up in your face.

It’s really up to you if you still want to use your Note 7. If you worry about bringing it inside the plane, you can still do so since FAA has not made a final decision yet if the new Galaxy Note will be banned from any commercial flights. It may happen but it may also not.

The TSA, FAA, and major airlines in the United States were asked if the phone will be restricted but there’s no official declaration yet. Once finalized, the Note 7 won’t be allowed in flights.

An FAA spokesperson shared this statement with Gizmodo:

“The FAA and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration are working on guidance related to this issue. If the device is recalled by the manufacturer, airline crew and passengers will not be able to bring recalled batteries or electronics that contain recalled batteries in the cabin of an aircraft, or in carry-on and checked baggage.”

Samsung’s recall is not yet official, at least, in the US and according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. As per Consumer Reports, the South Korean giant must do the recall properly by involving the US CPSC. Doing so will have the agency notify involved parties and businesses how to deal with the product.

Samsung’s recall is voluntary but in the United States, there’s a more proper and more legal process. Refunds and the replacement program should be offered with the guidance of the the commission.

VIA: Gizmodo