Following the recall of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smart phone on account of a fire causing defect, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and airlines have asked passengers not to turn on or charge these devices on board aircraft.

The NCAA said in a statement yesterday that, “Consequent upon recent incidents and concerns raised by Samsung about its Galaxy Note 7 devices, these phones must not be stowed away in any checked-in baggage.”

The agency further appealed to passengers to act responsibly in relation to ensuring safety and security of air transportation.

It also advised all airlines to emphasise the prohibition of this devices on board during passenger briefings by the Cabin Crew.

“Similarly, all those responsible for searching or screening checked-in baggage are expected to intensify the procedures to identify possible checked-in Samsung Galaxy Note 7.

“This became necessary due to several reported cases of overheating and outright explosion.

“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) therefore calls on all passengers and airline operators to ensure total adherence to this directive as safety and security of air transportation is paramount to the authority,” the statement added.

It will be recalled that Samsung has recalled over 2.5 million Galaxy Note 7 devices.

However, investigation has traced these problems to charging and the company is limiting battery charging on Galaxy Note 7 devices to prevent fires.

Furthermore, Samsung Electronics West Africa (SEWA) has announced the postponement of the launch of the handsets in Nigeria.

On September 2, Samsung began the global replacement programme as soon as customers began to report injuries caused by the rare battery cell. The problem was believed to affect 0.1 per cent of the 2.5 million phones sold worldwide since August.

Samsung said in a statement, “Since customers’ safety is our top priority, all Galaxy Note 7 purchased are eligible for replacement despite the original place of purchase.”

The company further noted that although the Galaxy Note 7 handsets were yet to be released in Nigeria, people who are already using it in the country can visit the nearest Samsung Authorised Service Centre for immediate assistance about the replacement programme.

“We acknowledge the inconvenience this may have caused in the market, but this is to ensure that Samsung continues to deliver the highest quality products to Samsung customers. Samsung is completely committed to fixing this problem and ensuring the highest level of safety and satisfaction for its customers,” the statement from read.

•Sourced from Business Day (Nigeria). Photo shows Samsung Galaxy Note 7.

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