Samsung phone-using air passengers travelling into and out of Nigeria are now being restricted from boarding as the nation’s aviation regulatory body, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, joins in adherence to a new rule forbidden a brand from the stable on board.
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The NCAA, by its recent action, joined other aviation organisations in the world to warn passengers not to turn on or charge Samsung smart phone Galaxy Note 7 on board aircraft.
In the note of warning to the airlines operating the Nigerian airspace, OrijoReporter’s check indicated that some airlines have upped the warning by banning Samsung product from their scheduled flights for fear of possible non-compliance with the rule by some passengers.
Recalled that the United States, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials last Thursday, September 8, 2016, warned airline passengers not to turn on or charge a new-model Samsung smart phone during flights following numerous reports of the devices catching fire.
In the same vein, Vietjet, an international low-cost airline from Vietnam had also warned passengers not to carry Samsung Galaxy Note 7 in the form of check–in luggage.
NCAA hinged its recent order on recent incidents and concerns raised by Samsung about its Galaxy Note 7 devices, and thus directed passengers not to turn on or charge these devices on board aircraft.
The warning is contained in an online statement signed by the General Manager, Public Relations, Mr. Sam Adurogboye and made available to journalists in Lagos.
Adurogboye said that in addition to the warning, these phones must not be stowed away in any checked-in baggage.
The agency stated that a letter with reference NCAA/DOT/ALL OPS/VOL.1/00716 had been sent to all the airlines and other stakeholders for strict compliance,
According to him, “NCAA is appealing to the passengers’ responsibilities in relation to ensuring safety and security of air transportation. Importantly, all Airlines are hereby advised to emphasise the prohibition of this devices on board during passenger briefings by the Cabin Crew.”
Similarly, NCAA directed all those responsible for searching or screening checked-in baggage at the various airports to intensify the procedures to identify possible checked-in Samsung Galaxy Note 7.
The regulatory agency noted that Samsung has recalled over 2.5 million Galaxy Note 7 devices due to several reported cases of overheating and outright explosion.
It however stated that investigation had traced these problems to charging and that the company is limiting battery charging on Galaxy Note 7 devices to prevent inferno.
NCAA advised passengers and airline operators to ensure total adherence to this directive, as safety and security of air transportation is paramount to the Authority.
