Samsung phone catches fire aboard Delhi-Indore flight
It was a close shave for about 120 people onboard a Delhi-Indore Jet Airways flight yesterday, when a mobile phone of a passenger caught fire. According to witnesses, the fire extinguishers on the plane didn't work. But the blaze was doused and the plane landed safely. Arpita Dhal, whose phone had caught fire, said it was a Samsung J7.
What happened?
About 15 minutes after taking off, Delhi resident Arpita noticed smoke coming out of her bag that she had placed below the seat. She and her husband Atul immediately called for help, but alleged the fire extinguishers weren't working. The crew then doused it by putting it in water. Three other phones she was carrying were also put in as a precaution.
The device has been confiscated for now
Atul says they will lodge a complaint with Jet regarding passenger safety. "If there is a major fire or blast what will they do when their fire extinguishers don't work like this?" However, according to a Jet spokesperson, the incident was handled "as per guidelines". "Jet Airways crew… took all necessary steps as precautionary measure." The device has been confiscated and is being investigated.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7 banned on flights
Last year, airlines around the world had banned the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 aboard flights after several reports of the device exploding. Some temporarily lifted the ban after replacements were issued, but it was re-enforced when even the 'safe' ones started exploding.
