The International Air Transport Association has welcomed the decision by the United States Department of Homeland Security to enhance security measures as an alternative to banning laptops in-cabin on all flights to the US, IATA said in a statement on its website.
The new measures will affect 180 airlines and 280 airports.
The DHS says the heightened security protocols include enhancing overall passenger screening, conducting heightened screening of personal electronic devices, increasing security protocols around aircraft and in passenger areas, deploying advanced technology and expanding canine screening.
Airlines have 120 days to comply with the new regulations, or face sanctions.
IATA says it is looking forward to working with its member airlines and DHS to implement this phased approach to enhanced aviation security, including ensuring airline costs and minimizing operational impacts.
Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s director general and CEO, said the ruling “raises the bar on security”.
“The aggressive implementation timeline will, however, be challenging,” he added.
“Meeting it will require a continued team effort of government and industry stakeholders. In particular, airlines and airports will need to be supported by host states during the phase-in of the new requirements.”
The ruling means that the current laptop ban on certain flights from the Middle East and Africa could also be lifted, provided the heightened security protocols are adhered to.
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