TheCable

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed passengers not to turn on or charge their Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices while aboard any plane.

Sam Adurogboye, NCAA’s general manager, public relations, who gave the directive on Tuesday, said the action was necessary following recent incidents and concerns raised by manufacturers of the product.

The agency warned passengers not to keep the phones in any checked-in baggage.

“NCAA is appealing to the passengers’ responsibilities in relation to ensuring safety and security of air transportation,” read a statement signed by Adurogboye.

“Importantly, all airlines are hereby advised to emphasise the prohibition of these 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.”

The NCAA reminded travellers that Samsung had recalled over 2.5 million Galaxy Note 7 devices due to several reported cases of overheating and outright explosion.

According to the statement, investigations traced these problems to charging, and the company was limiting battery charging on Galaxy Note 7 devices to prevent inferno.

“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 nation’s regulatory body said it had also sent a letter with reference NCAA/DOT/ALL OPS/VOL.1/00716 to all airlines and all other stakeholders for strict compliance.