After the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 fiasco, the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) has now banned the handset from flights in the US. Taking the device on a flight could result in severe penalties, including up to 10 years in jail.
It is now a federal crime to take the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 onto any US flight. Anyone who does could be fined up to $179,933 and possibly face imprisonment.
Any person failing to comply with this Order is subject to civil penalties of up to $179,933 for each violation for each day they are found to be in violation (49 U.S.C. 5123). A person violating this Order may also be subject to criminal prosecution, which may result in fines under title 18, imprisonment of up to ten years, or both (49 U.S.C. 5124).
Background of the Galaxy Note 7 Issue
The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was initially launched with high expectations, boasting advanced features and cutting-edge technology. However, shortly after its release, reports began to surface about the device overheating and, in some cases, catching fire. This led to a global recall of the initial batch of devices. Samsung attempted to rectify the situation by issuing replacement units, but unfortunately, these too were found to have similar issues.
The root cause of the problem was identified as a battery defect, which posed significant safety risks. The severity of the issue prompted Samsung to take the unprecedented step of canceling the Galaxy Note 7 entirely and recalling all units, including both the original and replacement handsets.
Implications of the FAA Ban
The FAA’s decision to ban the Galaxy Note 7 from flights underscores the seriousness of the safety concerns associated with the device. The ban is not just a precautionary measure; it is a legal mandate that carries substantial penalties for non-compliance. This move aims to ensure the safety of passengers and crew by eliminating the risk of a potential fire hazard on board an aircraft.
The implications of this ban are far-reaching. For one, it sets a precedent for how regulatory bodies might handle similar situations in the future. It also serves as a stark reminder to manufacturers about the importance of rigorous testing and quality control. The financial and reputational damage to Samsung has been significant, and the company has since implemented more stringent safety measures for its devices.
For consumers, the ban means that anyone still in possession of a Galaxy Note 7 must take immediate action to return the device to Samsung. Failure to do so could result in severe legal consequences, including hefty fines and possible imprisonment.
Samsung has been proactive in its efforts to retrieve the remaining units. The company has offered various incentives to encourage users to return their devices, including full refunds and exchanges for other Samsung models. Despite these efforts, some units remain unaccounted for, which is why the FAA’s ban remains in effect.
You can see full details about the ruling by the Federal Aviation Authority over at their website at the link below.
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