Western Reader
Dubai’s Emirates Airlines has banned pagers and walkie-talkies on all its flights due to recent deadly attacks in Lebanon. The decision, made in early October 2024, applies to both checked and carry-on luggage for all passengers traveling to, from, or through Dubai. The airline cited increased safety concerns as the main reason for this new restriction, following the discovery of explosive devices concealed in such communication tools used by Hezbollah.
The ban comes after coordinated attacks in September that resulted in over 30 casualties. The explosions were allegedly triggered by explosive devices planted in pagers and walkie-talkies. Despite Lebanon accusing Israel of orchestrating the attacks, Israeli officials have not publicly taken responsibility. These attacks have heightened tensions in the region, leading airlines like Emirates to reassess their safety measures.
https://twitter.com/devijamana73/status/1842797593299996970
Emirates declared that any pagers or walkie-talkies found in passengers’ possession or luggage would be confiscated by Dubai authorities. The airline stressed that this action was vital to ensure the safety of passengers and crew amidst the ongoing instability in the Middle East. Similar restrictions were enforced by Qatar Airways on flights between Doha and Beirut shortly before Emirates’ announcement.
The prohibition is part of a broader set of travel restrictions imposed by Emirates on routes passing through conflict zones. The airline has halted flights to Lebanon until at least mid-October, and services to Iraq and Iran remain suspended until October 7.
This is pure cinema 🔥🔥
Due to the hacking risks associated with phones, #Hezbollah members exclusively use #Pagers. #Israel infiltrated the pager network in Lebanon and infected all devices with malware. #Mossad triggered explosions in all pagers owned by Hezbollah.
pic.twitter.com/k5Y7cH2R1M— Matt murdock🚀 (@mattmurock123) September 17, 2024
Passengers attempting to transit through Dubai to these countries are currently being denied travel at their departure point. Emirates is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with regional and international authorities to update its policies accordingly.
Emirates’ action reflects the overall concern in the airline industry regarding the misuse of common devices for illicit purposes in conflict regions. By removing pagers and walkie-talkies from their flights, Emirates aims to prevent potential security breaches that could jeopardize passengers. The airline has advised affected customers to contact their travel agents or Emirates directly to explore alternative travel arrangements.
The incidents prompting this drastic measure underscore the evolving threats faced by airlines, especially in areas where militant groups are present. The utilization of basic communication devices, usually not flagged as high-risk, presents a new challenge in asymmetric warfare. This is likely why Emirates, a major global airline, promptly acted to avert any future incidents on its aircraft.
While Emirates’ decision may inconvenience some passengers, it emphasizes the necessity of maintaining stringent safety measures amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Travelers are urged to stay informed about any additional travel limitations, given the fluid nature of the situation, particularly with ongoing military actions and regional disputes. This prohibition is just one component of Emirates’ broader efforts to uphold the highest safety standards across its global network.
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