Cebu Pacific bans use of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on flights

AFP FILE PHOTO

Local budget carrier Cebu Pacific Air has banned the use of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 during its flights following global reports that the smartphone’s batteries exploded or caught fire.

READ: Samsung recalls Galaxy Note 7 after battery explosions

“In light of the recent recall of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices due to safety issues, Cebu Pacific (CEB) advises passengers that the usage and charging of the device are prohibited onboard all CEB and Cebgo flights beginning today, September 11, 2016, until further notice,” Cebu Pacific said in an advisory on Sunday.

“Galaxy Note 7 devices must also not be stowed in checked baggage, but may be hand-carried as long as the device is turned off at all times inside the aircraft. We sincerely hope for our passengers’ full cooperation, as the safety of everyone onboard our flights remains our utmost priority,” it added.

Since last week, Samsung has been pulling out Galaxy Note 7 from about 10 countries, including the United States and South Korea, due to confirmed incidents of exploding or catching fire.

READ: Samsung tells Korean customers to stop using Galaxy Note 7

In South Korea, the technology giant advised its customers to go to service centers for temporary rental phones, and that it would provide new batteries starting Sept. 19.

The US Federal Aviation Administration also issued a similar advisory last week, “strongly advising” travelers not to charge or switch on their Galaxy Note 7 on flights./RGA