AUSTRALIA’s response to the US laptop ban has been singled out as a less disruptive way of dealing with the electronic device bomb threat amid calls for better co-operation between airlines and governments.
Australia stopped short of banning large electronic devices in the cabins of aircraft flying from the Gulf airports of Doha, Abu Dhabi and Dubai but tightened up security requirements.
Passengers heading to Australia from the Gulf ports now face random explosive detection screening and may be required to power up their electronic devices.
The requirements affect passengers on services operated by Qantas, Emirates, Etihad and Qatar and are similar to those already in place for Australian domestic flights..
Releasing February traffic statistics that showed continued strong growth in air travel this year, the International Air Transport Association renewed its criticism of the US ban on large electronic devices in the cabins of aircraft from some North African and Middle east destinations.
“It’s intolerable that governments continue to add to the uncertainties facing the air transport industry by failing to engage airline operational know-how on issues that can damage public confidence,’’ IATA director general Alexandre de Juniac said.
“The introduction of restrictions on the carry-on of large electronic devices was a missed opportunity and the result was a measure that cannot stand-up to the scrutiny of public confidence in the long term.
“Although Australia’s measures were also implemented without consulting the industry, they at least demonstrate the potential to mitigate the threat with less disruptive means. We all want to keep flying secure. And we can do that most effectively by working together.’’
De Juniac called on states to support the International Civil Aviation Organisation as it develops a global aviation security plan that includes better information sharing.
A major criticism of the US ban was the hurried way it was implemented and the lack of information.
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