FAA expands flying ban to replacement Samsung phones

US aviation-safety officials Monday said flyers should not use any Samsung Electronics Galaxy Note 7 cellphones on flights, expanding their guidance to include replacement models. The FAA widened the guidance given to airlines and flyers about the phone’s possible fire risks, having previously excluded models purchased after Sept. 15 from their warnings. The move will iron out differences in how the existing ban on the use of the phone is applied by airlines. Some included all Note 7 models while others excluded the replacement models. The FAA reiterated its guidance, which is also being followed by overseas airlines, for passengers to keep phones powered off and avoid charging them on the plane. Passengers are also being told to keep phones on their person or in carry-on baggage. The agency cited Samsung’s decision to suspend sales and product exchanges, as well as the continuing probe by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. Airlines have been reminding passengers with announcements at airport gates and as part of preflight safety briefings. <br/>