Airlines ban use of recalled Samsung smartphones on flights due to battery explosion risks

Singapore Airlines has joined other airlines in banning the inflight use of Samsung's Galaxy Note 7 phones after reports of explosions from faulty batteries in some handsets.

Etihad Airways announced earlier that it would also temporarily ban the use of the Galaxy Note 7 devices on board their flights.

"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.

It started the recall process of 2.5 million units shipped globally following reports of exploding "phablets" that dealt a heavy blow to the firm's reputation.

Lifehacker has reported that approximately 50,000 devices have been sold in Australia.

Samsung has said in a statement that no incidents have been reported in Australia, but Australian owners of Galaxy Note7 devices are entitled to a replacement, repair or refund.

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

Qantas and Virgin Australia have issued similar warnings.

"Following Samsung’s product recall announcement, Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices may not be used or charged on board Virgin Australia flights," a Virgin spokesman said.

The US Federal Aviation Administration has also warned passengers not to turn on or charge Galaxy Note 7 smartphones on an aircraft due to the risks involved. 

The FAA also advised passengers not to stow Galaxy Note 7 devices in checked baggage, evidently to avoid the risk of fires in cargo holds of aircraft.