Electronics ban lifted on Turkish Airlines’ transatlantic flights
Turkish Airlines has become the latest airline to have the US ban on in-cabin electronics lifted with immediate effect.
Abu Dhabi-based Etihad was the first to get the green light for passengers to resume travelling with laptops and other electronic devices in the cabin. Emirates had its ban on electronics in carry-on bags lifted yesterday.
Meanwhile Saudi’s national airline said it also expects the ban to be lifted for its flights ‘on or before July 19’.
"Turkish Airways and Emirates Airline have initiated the process for lifting the ban by alerting the TSA they are ready to comply with the enhanced security measures," a Department of Homeland Security spokesman told broadcaster CNN.
However the DHS was less forthcoming over Saudia’s bid to end the laptop ban.
"We’re not in a position to confirm so far in advance," the DHS spokesman said.
"Saudi Arabian Airlines is still operating under the portable electronic device restriction."
The ban was imposed in March on flights from Turkey, the Middle East and North Africa, forcing all electronic devices larger than a smartphone to be stowed in the cargo hold only.
"The current PED restriction implemented in March 2017 will be removed should the 10 airports comply with the enhanced security measures outlined in the TSA directive issued June 28, 2017 and when such procedures are verified by TSA inspectors," the DHS added.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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