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Australia looking 'very closely' at potential aircraft laptop ban: Turnbull

The UK and US have banned laptops on inbound flights from certain Middle East and African countries and there's a chance Australia could follow suit.

file image
File photo of a woman using a laptop. Source: Press Association

The US banned carry-on electronic devices on planes originating from 10 airports in Muslim-majority countries in March, with the UK quickly following suit. 

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull indicated Australia was considering the issue and “looking at it very closely”.

"We are taking into account all of the information and advice we're receiving internationally and we're working very closely with our partners,” Mr Turnbull said.

"In due course, any announcements will be made formally though the Transport Minister."

Transport Minister Darren Chester said while safety and security of Australia’s travelling public is a “priority” the government already has a “comprehensive” transport security system in place.

“The government continuously monitors shifts in the threat environment domestically and overseas to ensure we have the best security arrangements in place to meet the challenges we face,” Minister Chester said. 

US agencies preparing plans to expand the ban to other countries with conflict zones, according to Reuters.

This follows fresh intelligence militant groups like Islamic State could be gearing up for a terrorist attack involving bombs in laptops.


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