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Thread: U.S. and U.K. ban laptops and other devices on flights from Middle East

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    Site Caretaker Dave A's Avatar
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    U.S. and U.K. ban laptops and other devices on flights from Middle East

    The U.S. and U.K. on Tuesday banned people flying from much of the Middle East and North Africa from carrying laptops, tablets and other large electronic devices in the airplane cabin because of concerns about terrorism.

    New security restrictions from the Trump administration require nine airlines based in the region to prevent people flying from eight countries from bringing any device bigger than a smartphone on board. Those devices will have to be checked into the luggage hold.

    Top international carriers -- such as Emirates Airline, Qatar Airways, British Airways and Turkish Airlines -- are among those that will have to implement new restrictions.
    read the full story here

    For those routing through Dubai - it's a problem...

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    Diamond Member AndyD's Avatar
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    There's been a growing trend recently of authorities insisting on having passwords to travellers devices especially at US and UK entry points to allow inspection and possibly harvesting of personal files and data.

    I'm still not sure if this new travel ban is a serious attempt to somehow limit data being imported into the country or whether it's because of the threat of the laptop being used as some kinda IED. Could also just be political blustering as well I guess.
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    Site Caretaker Dave A's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by AndyD View Post
    ... or whether it's because of the threat of the laptop being used as some kinda IED.
    Seems that's the official reason. I'm less than thrilled at the thought of laptops going into checked-in luggage though when even the offices of the Chief Justice aren't safe.

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    Diamond Member AndyD's Avatar
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    It may be the official reason but I'm not buying it. They're mouths may be saying it's about reducing bomb threats but in that case they're policy is basically saying IED's are okay as long as they're in the hold and not hand luggage....ergo they're bullshitting. As for checking in electronic devices I'd agree that the chance of them arriving in tact at the destination is pretty slim.
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    Platinum Member sterne.law@gmail.com's Avatar
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    Part of the real reason, I think, is to protect American airlines.

    Ironically some of the destinations are those on new routes of new competitors that go through Dubai in particular
    Given the choice, most passengers will travel the US airline, via different route and have their gadgets at hand.
    16 hours without gadgets would be painful
    Anthony Sterne

    www.acumenholdings.co.za
    DISCLAIMER The above is merely a comment in discussion form and an open public arena. It does not constitute a legal opinion or professional advice in any manner or form.

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