ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) cautioned passengers against carrying the newly-released Samsung Galaxy Note 7 on Sunday after reports that faulty batteries in the new smartphone caused some handsets to explode.

Samsung, the world's largest smartphone maker, said last week it was suspending sales of its latest flagship mobile device and recalling 2.5 million units shipped globally following reports of exploding “phablets” that dealt a heavy blow to the firm's reputation.

The national flag carrier's warning comes as other international airlines, such as Qantas, Virgin Austra­lia and Etihad, have also taken similar steps, asking customers to not to use or charge Samsung's Galaxy Note 7 during flights.

"In view of recent reports about Samsung Galaxy Note 7 devices, and the international warnings to airline passengers not to carry this smartphone during flights, PIA passengers are also strongly advised not to carry it, not even in their check-in luggage, as it may compromise aircraft and passenger safety," PIA Spokesman Daniyal Gilani said.