Emirates has confirmed that as per the new security directive issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), electronic devices larger than a smartphone, excluding medical devices, cannot be carried in the cabin of the aircraft. The directive comes into effect on 25th March and is valid until 14th October. It is applicable to all US-bound passengers from Dubai International Airport, whether originating or transiting through. Emirates requests that all passengers travelling to the US pack all electronic devices larger than a cell phone/smart phone in their checked-in baggage.
Laptops and tablets will be collected only before boarding
Emirates aims to let passengers take their laptops past security gates at Dubai International Airport and collect the devices only before boarding as the carrier seeks to minimise the impact of an electronics ban on US-bound flights. The Dubai-based carrier is planning to permit devices affected by the ban within the security perimeter to allow passengers, particularly those flying in premium seats, to use laptops and tablets until the last possible moment, it said. The airline will then take the items for storage in the cargo hold until arrival.
Additional staff will be deployed to avoid disruptions to the flow of passengers, especially in the first few days of implementing the new rules.