Days after the United States imposed bans on electronic devices for passengers boarding US flights, on transit through the Abu Dhabi International Airport, Etihad Airways has moved to minimize disruptions.
The airline has announced that it will offer first and business class passengers iPads for use during flights. Premium passengers will also be offered free Wi-Fi for their smartphones.

Etihad Airways is giving its passengers iPads following a ban on electronic devices by the US. [Photo/
In March, the United States government banned people flying from much of the Middle East and North Africa from carrying laptops, iPads, cameras, e-readers and gaming devices in the airplane cabin over terrorism concerns.
![Passengers go through security check. [Photo/The Times]](https://i0.wp.com/nomadmagazine.co/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/laptop-ban.jpg?resize=720%2C405)
Passengers go through security check. [Photo/The Times]
And with an on-board inflight entertainment system offering hundreds of hours of free programmes, international movies, live TV news and sports channels, interactive games, and music in every seat, Etihad Airways has been able to keep its passengers busy throughout their journey without the need of a laptop or tablet.
![Security check. [Photo/dailymail.co.uk]](https://i2.wp.com/nomadmagazine.co/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/luggage-check.jpg?resize=720%2C457)
Security check. [Photo/dailymail.co.uk]
Any prohibited electronic devices will have to be declared and placed in padded envelopes before being securely taken to the aircraft luggage hold by staff.

[Photo/newsinfo.inquier.net]
Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways chief executive, said: “We remain committed to ensuring we provide guests the highest levels of service and quality experience that we are renowned for, at Abu Dhabi International Airport and throughout their journey to minimise the impact of the new measures.
![[Photo/buzzfeed.com]](https://i0.wp.com/nomadmagazine.co/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/united-states.jpg?resize=720%2C481)
[Photo/buzzfeed.com]
Etihad Airways has further stated that bookings to the United States are healthy despite the ban on electronics.