The Homeland Security Department is demanding that airlines around the world step up security measures for international flights bound for the United States. If they don't, they could face the possibility of a total electronics ban for planes, AP reported. Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly announced the rollout of new security rules on Wednesday. Compliance with the new rules could lead to removing a ban on laptops and other large electronics from passenger cabins on flights to the United States from 10 airports in the Middle East and Africa. It could also stave off a much-discussed expansion of the ban to flights from Europe. Industry and U.S. officials briefed on the announcement said airports and airlines around the world will be required to implement the measures. If they don't, their passengers may be barred from carrying laptops and other large electronics in passenger cabins. Such a laptop ban has been in place at 10 airports in the Middle East and Africa. The new policy could lead to those bans being lifted.
