Emirates announces ban on MacBook Pro laptops

Emirates, Etihad, MacBook Pro, cabin baggage, check-in luggage

Dubai - Earlier, Etihad had said that the devices would be allowed only in cabin baggage.

Angel Tesorero

Published: Mon 9 Sep 2019, 6:21 PM

Last updated: Mon 9 Sep 2019, 7:47 PM

Joining a number of international airlines, Dubai-based Emirates has also banned the carrying of a certain model of MacBook Pro computers in both checked and carry-on luggage, the Dubai-based airline posted on its website on Sunday.

"Apple recently announced a recall of 15-inch MacBook Pro models sold between September 2015 and February 2017, citing defective batteries that could overheat and pose a fire safety risk. Therefore, as a safety precaution, travellers will not be permitted to carry these MacBook Pro models as checked or carry-on baggage on Emirates flights unless the battery has been replaced," Emirates said.
An Emirates spokesperson confirmed to Khaleej Times that passengers are barred from carrying the device both as check-in baggage and carry-on luggage.

The airline also advised passengers to check if their device is affected.

Last month, Etihad Airways joined Qantas Airways, Virgin Australia, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways in banning the carriage of MacBook Pro computers in checked luggage.

"Guests may still carry MacBook Pro laptops on flights, but only in cabin baggage. The laptops subject to the manufacturer's recall must remain switched off throughout the flight. Charging of the devices will not be permitted in flight," Etihad earlier told Khaleej Times.

"This checked luggage restriction is consistent with the actions of many airlines worldwide. The safety of our guests and crew is of paramount importance to Etihad Airways," the Abu Dhabi-based airline underlined.

Etihad Cargo has also banned the bulk shipment of these computers.

Apple has announced a world-wide safety-related recall program. It has determined that, in a limited number of older generation 15-inch MacBook Pro units, the battery may overheat and pose a fire safety risk.

Affected units were sold primarily between September 2015 and February 2017 and eligibility for the free battery replacement is determined by the product serial number.

angel@khaleejitimes.com