Emirates Airlines offers new service to offset ban on electronic devices in Mideast flights
The US and the UK crack down on in-flight devices that might contain hidden explosives. Experts doubt about its effectiveness. "Let us entertain you" is Emirates Airlines alternative.
Dubai (AsiaNews/Agencies) – Dubai’s Emirates airline has announced it will provide a free packing-and-handling service for passengers on flights hit by a US ban on electronic devices larger than a standard smartphone. The service is also available for passengers transiting through Dubai International Airport.
“Our new complimentary service enables passengers, particularly those flying for business, to have the flexibility to use their devices until the last possible moment,” said Tim Clark, president of Emirates.
The US ban on laptops and tablets applies to flights from ten airports in the region, including direct flights to the United States from Dubai International Airport and Ataturk Airport in Istanbul.
US airlines do not operate direct flights out of the airports included in the ban.
A similar British ban covers all airports in Turkey, Jordan and four other countries, but not the United Arab Emirates.
Both countries have cited credible threats to civil aviation from Al-Qaeda and ISIS as the reason for the ban.
The move was prompted by reports that militant groups want to smuggle explosive devices inside electronic gadgets.
US officials say militant groups are known for innovative bomb designs, including embedding them inside computers.
However, some security experts questioned the efficacy of the ban. "A partial ban targeting only few airlines in some countries will not protect passengers from a terrorist threat," said Ruben Morales, head of corporate safety at Hong Kong Airlines.
"Nowadays airlines are highly connected through alliances and codeshare agreements . . . Nothing prevents passengers from bringing their electronic devices onboard non-direct flights to the U.S. from countries outside of the ban."
The ban has come under criticism in majority-Muslim countries. Turkish President Recep President Erdogan said that a US and British had damaged mutual confidence and said he hoped the mistake would be corrected soon.
Italy announced on Thursday it would not follow the United States and the United Kingdom. "No evidence has emerged to make it necessary for a further increase in the security measures that are already in force," Italy's civil aviation authority ENAC said in a statement.
In addition to its new service, Emirates Airline tweeted "Who needs laptops anyway? Let us entertain you" in an effort to promote its in-flight entertainment system.
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