NZ considers electronics ban for flights from region

dubai — In a move that would affect passengers from Dubai, New Zealand is mulling over restrictions on carry-on laptops and other electronic devices on flights from a number of Middle Eastern countries, according to Prime Minister Bill English. The new rules would be similar to those introduced last month by the US, Britain and Australia.

In an interview with Reuters in Dubai on Sunday, English noted that New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is “assessing the evidence to determine what is appropriate”.

Earlier, English had told reporters in Wellington that the country was considering the issue, and would make a decision on the matter, independent of the government.

“A number of our security partners put those arrangements in place,” he said. “With this particular proposition, there is a balance between inconvenience for passengers, many of whom live off their laptop on one hand, but on the other hand, making sure that the flying is safe.” In a statement, New Zealand’s CAA said it was routinely monitoring security screenings in other airports.

If implemented, the proposed new rules would affect passengers from Dubai, from where Emirates flies direct to New Zealand, and those on Qatar Airways flights from Dubai.

In response to the US ban on carry-on electronics from a number of airports — including Dubai and Abu Dhabi — the UAE’s carriers have come out with a number of responses. Etihad Airways started offering of free WiFi and tablets to premium passengers, while Emirates introduced a laptop and tablet handling service.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com

With this particular proposition, there is a balance between inconvenience for passengers, many of whom live off their laptop on one hand, but on the other hand, making sure that the flying is safe.” Bill English, New Zealand Prime Minister