The future of air travel
The world's pilot innovative "Easy Security" system for passengers consisting of two full-body scanners and two automated luggage-X-ray lanes are seen during live operations at Cologne-Bonn's Konrad Adenauer Airport in Cologne, Germany, November 17, 2016. Reuters file photo
Each time new aviation security measures are introduced, they reshape the way we fly. We may complain about the inconvenience and hassle, even question the rationale and the effectiveness of the measures. But ultimately we accept and adjust.
Following the universal ban on hand carriage of liquid of more than 100 millilitres, air travellers know they have to drink up that can of soda or bottle of water before security screening.
Removing shoes at United States airports has become a habit, and many travellers are wearing slip-ons and sandals. Arriving at the airport hours ahead of schedule to allow for security clearance has become a requirement.
So when the US and United Kingdom now ban laptops and other electronic devices larger than a normal cellphone on inbound flights arriving from airports in parts of Africa and the Middle East, it raises a lot of protest.
The ban came after both governments said intelligence sources note that airlines could be targeted by explosives planted in electronic devices in the cabin.
Understandably such devices have become an essential part of the modern lifestyle. It does not matter if IT experts argue that a mobile phone works as well as an incendiary device. While such gadgets may be packed in checked baggage, there is concern over fire safety of lithium-ion batteries used in many of them. Passengers also worry about pilferage and possible damages.
The ban means businessmen will not be able to work on board without their laptops. Some parents despair that their kids will not survive a long trip without a tablet to engage them.
Security measures are never exhaustive; they are at best aimed at reducing the remote possibility of a mishap occurring.
Some are introduced after the fact even if experts think a recurrence is unlikely. Not all restrictions are universal, depending on the vulnerability of time and place, such as the US and UK ban on electronic devices.
Interestingly, the US restrictions exempt US carriers, but the UK ruling applies to home-based carriers British Airways and easyJet as well.
Some affected airlines are taking the ban in their stride and use the opportunity to promote their in-flight service and entertainment.
An ad by Emirates Airlines says “who needs tablets and laptops anyway?” when its plane “has so many games, so many movies, it’s crazy”.
Royal Jordanian Airlines infuses some humour publishing a list of 12 things to do that include reading a book, saying hello to the person seated next to you, engaging in primitive dialogue from the pre-internet era and meditating. If that’s not enough, it recommends: “Or do what we Jordanians do best... Stare at each other.”
Not to be disadvantaged by the exemption granted to US carriers, Qatar Airways is offering free laptop loans in business class on all US bound flights from affected airports.
Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “We truly appreciate the importance of being able to work on board our aircraft.”
Emirates, Etihad Airways and Turkish Airlines are offering similar perks with free wifi. Other affected carriers are likely to follow suit.
Emirates is also introducing a special handling service that will allow passengers to use their devices until it is time to board instead of stowing them in checked baggage.
It demonstrates the agility of the industry to think up solutions to overcome what may develop into a competitive commercial issue.
While some travellers may avoid travelling on affected airlines or connecting flights out of affected airports, the ban may open a door to new business opportunities.
Some airlines for instance may consider charging for loaned devices. A limited number may be offered first-come-first-served, like seats with more legroom, thus encouraging early booking which is something an airline wishes for.
So far only Australia has stated it will not implement the ban on electronic devices, but Canada said it is considering joining the US and the UK in adopting the restrictions. Other countries have not indicated how they will go.
Will it become an international security standard, like the prohibition on a can of soda or bottle of water?
While more restrictions may be on the cards, air travel in future may ironically become smoother and less of a hassle as security screening becomes speedier.
A likely scenario is one where travellers will be allowed only essentials such as passport and other necessary documentation, money, perhaps a book, notepad and pen, and necessities they may acquire at shops after screening.
Everything else will be provided on board, whether free or on loan for a fee, There will be less jostling for space in the overhead compartment.
The in-flight entertainment system will offer so much choice that you will not miss anything that you used to carry with you on board.
And, with the crew kept busy to top up your glass, no restrictions shall destroy the romance of flying.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
David Leo is a published author and aviation veteran.
