FAA: Powering on Galaxy Note 7 during flight prohibited

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially banned Samsung's Galaxy Note 7 from being used during flights and asked airlines to stop passengers from powering on or using the recalled smartphone.

"Passengers may not turn on or charge the devices when they carry them on board a plane," the FAA said in a statement. "Passengers must also protect the devices from accidental activation, including disabling any features that may turn on the device, such as alarm clocks, and must not pack them in checked luggage."

The FAA and airlines issued softer guidance earlier this month, saying they "strongly" advise fliers to not turn on or charge the Galaxy Note 7.

The firm stance from the FAA comes after the Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a recall of the new Galaxy Note 7 on Thursday. It reported 92 reports of overheating Note 7 batteries in the US, with 55 of those events resulting in reports of property damage.

The massive recall has resulted in a scramble for Samsung to replace the Galaxy Note 7 across the globe. New Galaxy Note 7 handsets are expected to be back in stores on Sept. 21. Until then, the FAA advises fliers to:

• Turn off the device.
• Disconnect the device from any charging equipment.
• Disable all applications that could inadvertently activate the phone (e.g., alarm clock).
• Protect the power switch to prevent its unintentional activation.
• Keep the device in carry-on baggage or on your person. (Do not place in checked baggage.)

At this point, if you haven't sent your Galaxy Note 7 back as part of the recall or returned it, you are taking a big risk.