Almost two months ago, the UK followed the lead of the United States by implementing a cabin baggage ban on electronic devices, specifically on direct passenger flights originating in six Muslim-majority countries. While the move by these countries has led to an amount of inconvenience for those affected, that hasn't stopped Qatar Airways from offering laptop rentals to its business class passengers on flights to the US.
Now, according to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, Australia could potentially implement a similar ban of its own and said:
"We are looking at it very closely. We are taking into account all of the information and advice we're receiving internationally and we're working very closely with our partners.
In due course, any announcements will be made formally though the Transport Minister."
The comments from the PM come after Federal Transport Minister Darren Chester originally advised that the Australian Government did not plan on following suit back in March. However, the minister did indicate that the Government would "continue to monitor security developments and adjust our security settings if needed."
As to what form a potential electronics ban as implemented by the Australian Government would take on remains to be seen. However, given that the USA and UK have barred devices larger than a smartphone from passenger cabins on selected routes, it would not be unexpected for Australia to follow the same approach.
Source: ABC News Australia via Australian Business Traveller | Image via Shutterstock
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