DHS Bans Computers And Other Electronic Devices On Some Flights To The U.S.

DHS Bans Computers And Other Electronic Devices On Some Flights To The U.S.

The Department of Homeland Security has ordered certain Middle East and African airlines to ban travelers from carrying on some electronic devices, according to a report from CNN.

The report says:

An aviation official told CNN that there is a security concern regarding passengers boarding nonstop flights to the U.S. from specific countries. This relates to the “screening in [some] countries” for nonstop flights to the U.S.

They added that they believe a threat to the U.S. would be negated if a passenger transferred through a secondary city with additional and more trustworthy screening procedures. The directive is to ensure enhanced security measures at select airports for a limited duration.

CNN also reported that Royal Jordanian tweeted about the new procedures, but the tweet was deleted later in the day.  It appears that the airline would be one of those subject to the new regulation set out by the Department of Homeland Security.  Beginning Tuesday, the airline announced that it would only allow cell phones and medical devices to be carried on aircraft, with all other electronic devices having to be placed in checked luggage.

It will be interesting to see, if we do, what exactly the premise that this new policy is based on.  Is there a newer threat that has led DHS to take this action?  This also seems consistent with the new administration’s suspicion of Middle East countries and may be somewhat based on that suspicion.  I am technologically savvy enough to pretend to understand the threats that could stem from these devices, but I am also often suspicious of government attempts to appear to support security, where in fact there is little reason to believe those policies make people safer.  We should know more in the coming days.