Etihad airline bans use of Samsung 'exploding' mobiles

[ABU DHABI] Etihad Airways said Friday it has temporarily banned the use of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones on board its flights following reports of explosions from faulty batteries in some handsets.

"Following the global recall by Samsung of its Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones, Etihad Airways has, as a precautionary measure, enforced a temporary ban on the in-flight use and battery charging of these devices on all its flights until the issue is rectified by the manufacturer," the Abu Dhabi-based carrier said in a statement to AFP.

Samsung, the world's largest smartphone maker, said last week it was suspending sales of its latest flagship mobile device and recalling 2.5 million units shipped globally following reports of exploding "phablets" that dealt a heavy blow to the firm's reputation.

US and Japanese aviation authorities on Friday urged passengers not to turn on or charge Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones on aircraft.

Qantas and Virgin Australia have issued similar warnings.

AFP