Airlines banning Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on board

Samsung Galaxy Note 7 handsets have a problem, in that they sometimes go a bit on fire and might explode. That's not great, especially if you're on an airplane.

So while the Korean giant has committed to recalling as many as two million handsets around the world, some airlines are taking action. A handful of Australian carriers including Quantas and Virgin have issued a statement saying that Note 7 handsets cannot be charged or powered on:

"Following Samsung Australia's recall of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 personal electronic device we are requesting that passengers who own them do not switch on or charge them in flight"

It's quite a step to take but seems necessary enough given the dangers. A passenger could fall asleep with the phone charging and have a considerable blaze going before it is noticed.

Airlines in other countries are considering a similar move while Samsung proceeds with the major recall plan. Hopefully all effected handsets are returned and owners can move forward with a defective device.