If you're still holding onto a Samsung Galaxy Note 7, you might want to leave it at home before heading to the airport. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is now fining travelers who bring the banned device on commercial flights, with penalties reaching as high as $17,062. The move is part of a broader effort to prevent fires caused by faulty lithium-ion batteries at high altitudes.
The Galaxy Note 7 was pulled from the market in October 2016 after a series of incidents where the phone's battery overheated and, in some cases, exploded. The recall was one of the largest in tech history, affecting millions of units worldwide. Despite the recall, some travelers still attempt to carry the device, often unaware of the strict prohibition.
According to the TSA and the U.S. Department of Transportation, the fines apply to anyone caught with the Galaxy Note 7 in carry-on luggage, checked bags, or even in cargo. The agency has made it clear that ignorance of the rule is not an excuse, and enforcement is being stepped up at major airports across the country.
Why the Galaxy Note 7 is banned
The ban stems from the phone's design flaw, which caused severe thermal runaway—a chain reaction that leads to overheating and fires. In a pressurized cabin, such an event could be catastrophic. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has documented 756 incidents of fires or extreme heat events involving lithium batteries on commercial and cargo aircraft between March 2006 and July 2026. Of those, 585 occurred on passenger planes and 144 on cargo flights.
In 2025 alone, there were 97 incidents, and 58 more were reported through July 2026. Portable power banks accounted for 40.8% of these events, followed by 303 battery packs and 112 cell phones. These numbers highlight the ongoing risk that lithium batteries pose in aviation.
For Latino travelers, especially those flying between the U.S. and Latin America, it's essential to check your devices before packing. The TSA's rules apply to all flights departing from U.S. airports, and the fines are steep. If you're unsure whether your device is allowed, the safest bet is to leave it at home or contact your airline in advance.
Industry experts say the fines are a necessary deterrent. "The risk is real, and the consequences of a fire at 30,000 feet are unimaginable," says aviation safety consultant María Fernanda López, who has worked with airlines in México and Colombia. "The TSA is sending a clear message that safety comes first."
While the Galaxy Note 7 is the most notorious example, the TSA also restricts other devices with damaged or recalled batteries. Travelers should regularly check the TSA's prohibited items list and stay informed about any new regulations. For those planning trips to budget-friendly destinations, it's worth reviewing travel tips for Latino travelers to avoid any surprises at security.
The fines are part of a broader trend of stricter enforcement at U.S. airports. In addition to the Galaxy Note 7, the TSA has been cracking down on other violations, from littering fines in Los Angeles to new measures at airports like DFW, which recently added foot-washing stations for Muslim travelers. These changes reflect a growing emphasis on safety and passenger well-being.
For now, the message is clear: don't bring your Galaxy Note 7 to the airport. The fine is not worth the risk. If you're a frequent flyer, take a moment to review your devices and ensure they meet TSA guidelines. Your safety—and your wallet—will thank you.
