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US Lifts Airline Laptop Ban But Adds Enhanced Screenings Worldwide

U.S. officials lifted the ban for Saudia Airlines this week. It was the last of the nine affected airlines to need the OK.

By: Katherine Biek

Posted at 9:40 AM, Jul 20, 2017

and last updated 2017-07-20 09:40:25-04

The U.S.' controversial laptop ban for certain Middle Eastern or African airports is now over.

Saudia Airlines confirmed Wednesday that U.S.-bound passengers can now carry portable electronic devices on board its airplanes.

The ban, which the U.S. Department of Homeland Security launched in March, affected nine airlines at 10 airports.

DHS began lifting the ban for individual airlines as each implemented stricter security measures. And Saudia Airlines was the last airline to need the OK.

A DHS spokesperson confirmed on Twitter on Wednesday that the laptop ban had been lifted for all airports and airlines.

Also on Wednesday, DHS implemented enhanced security screenings and protocols for all U.S.-bound international flights. If airlines don't comply, their passengers won't be allowed to bring their electronics on board.

These new screening measures affect an estimated 325,000 passengers on 2,100 commercial flights each day.