Global business communities and airlines could suffer an economic blow in light of Trump’s proposed laptop ban in UK flights.

The ban is already issued in a selection of Middle Eastern airports with flights to the US.

With terrorism mounting throughout the globe, the measure is to protect passengers against acts of terror via electronic devices.

However, restricting laptops and large smart devices to the holding area for safety could negatively impact international business practices.

Laptop ban - Compelo

Other laptop ban implications

For professionals and C-suite executives who are still on the clock during intercontinental travel, no laptop access could stop them from doing their work.

Furthermore, this loss of billable hours could ultimately lead to airlines experiencing a depleted bottom line.

If businesspeople opt for conference calling over the hassle this new laptop ban could render, then both US and European commercial flight providers could suffer.

Laptop ban - Compelo

Mark Jenkinson, director of bespoke aircraft charter service Hunter & Palmer, shares his insight:

“A broadening of the laptop ban away from select high-threat countries has the potential to both hinder business and hit the airlines bottom line, as execs decide they cannot afford a day of time flying to the US without such a crucial business tool.

“For businesspeople who fly regularly, not being able to have a laptop or tablet onboard when travelling to the US could wipe out an entire billable day. It’s a big cost and a cost that the major commercial airlines could ultimately be set to pay.”

Laptop ban - Compelo

The US Department of Homeland Security has not confirmed if the ban extends to the UK.

So far, the US has banned electronics in carry-on luggage for nine airlines flying from specific Middle Eastern countries.

These territories include Dubai, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

The UK also followed suit by imposing a similar electronics carry-on ban for six other countries that are primarily Muslim.

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