The Trump administration enacted a new ban earlier this year, passengers on flights to the United States from eight countries can not carry-on devices larger than smartphones with them into the cabin. They are thus prohibited from carrying on tablets and laptops, all such devices have to be checked-in. If the latest reports are believed, the laptop ban may be extended to flights departing the United States as well.
There had even been reports that the administration was thinking about extending this ban to flights departing Europe but after officials from both sides met, the proposal was said to have been shelved.
Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly said in an interview with CNN that an extension of the ban is being considered as the United States continues to receive intelligence about constant threats against passenger aviation.
“We are now looking at kind of a worldwide hard look at raising the bar, the minimum bar, on aviation security. So, still contemplating extending the ban, as we work with partners,” he said.
It would be a major step on part of the Department of Homeland Security if it decides to extend the ban to flights departing the United States. Kelly hasn’t confirmed, though, if and when this is going to happen.
There’s no timeframe to suggest how long it might take before this happens. “We will make a decision when the time is right,” said.
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