DOT bans all Samsung Galaxy Note7 phones from airplanes
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – The U.S. Department of Transportation banned all Samsung Galaxy Note7 phones from airplanes.
They issued the emergency order on Friday. The ban will take effect on Saturday.
People who have a Note7 cannot take the phone on the person, in carry-on baggage or in checked bags on flights to, from, or within the U.S.
The ban includes all Samsung Galaxy Note7 devices.
“We recognize that banning these phones from airlines will inconvenience some passengers, but the safety of all those aboard an aircraft must take priority,” said Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “We are taking this additional step because even one fire incident inflight poses a high risk of severe personal injury and puts many lives at risk.”
The ban was put in place based on the incidents of “dangerous evolution of heat with both recalled and replacement Samsung Galaxy Note7 devices,” according to the release.
“The fire hazard with the original Note7 and with the replacement Note7 is simply too great for anyone to risk it and not respond to this official recall,” said CPSC Chairman Elliot F. Kaye. “I would like to remind consumers once again to take advantage of the remedies offered, including a full refund. It’s the right thing to do and the safest thing to do.”WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- If you are traveling with a banned device, it may be confiscated and you may face a fine.
- Anyone trying to sneak the phone into checked luggage may be subject to criminal prosecution in addition to fines.
- Passengers carrying Note7 devices on planes may be asked to power down their device and not charge it while aboard the aircraft.
For more information on the ban, click here.