Qatar Airways Is Basically Just Trolling The Electronics Ban Now

The electronics ban that recently went into effect alongside the continued efforts for a travel ban is causing some hassles for business travelers out there. The ban, which was followed by a similar effort in the UK, prohibits passengers from using electronics devices if they’re traveling to the United States from a list of Middle Eastern and African nations:

“Airlines that fly from certain countries in the Middle East and Africa to the U.S. must require passengers to check in almost all electronic devices rather than carry them into the cabin, said a U.S. official.”

Many have cried foul over the measure and it has been called punishment by the Trump administration for certain airlines. Some airlines, like Emirates, have tweeted jokes about the ban and tried to take it in stride — despite the clear hindrance for business passengers. The same can’t be said for Qatar Airways and their plan to undercut the measure by providing their passengers with a bypass.

That’s right, the airline is offering loaner laptops to all of their US-bound business class passengers. According to the press release from the airline, passengers will be able to download their work from their laptops before boarding and then transfer it to the loaner machines in order to continue their work without losing their spot:

“As an award-winning and global airline we truly appreciate the importance of being able to work on board our aircraft and that is why I have insisted on offering only the best possible solution for our customers. By providing this laptop loan service we can ensure that our passengers on flights to the US can continue to work whilst on-board. This unique ability to offer ‘business as usual’, above and beyond the competition, is yet another example of Qatar Airways justification for being the ‘World’s Best Business Class’.”

For those not looking to do work, the airline is also offering an hour of free WiFi and a $5 charge to cover the rest of the flight. It’s a small concession for those who will be limited to only their smartphones — or actually physical media — while on board. The airline is also touting their “3,000 entertainment options on the award-winning in-flight entertainment system, dedicated kids activity packs in partnership with Hasbro, luxury amenity kits” as alternatives to those who can’t bring their tablets and laptops onboard.

The airline is even having some fun with their April Fool’s prank, offering a solo seat that would be the best way to fly. If only it were true.

(Via Qatar Airways / Mashable)