The U.S. Transportation Security Administration said it was lifting a ban on passengers on Saudi Arabian Airlines carrying large electronics like laptops on board U.S.-bound flights, Reuters reports.

U.S. officials imposed restrictions on passengers carrying laptops and other large electronic gear in cabins on nine airlines in March, most of which were Middle Eastern carriers, in response to intel that Al Qaeda was perfecting techniques for hiding explosives in batteries and battery compartments of electronic devices.

U.S. officials announced new security requirements for all airlines, last month instead of extending the laptop ban and have been dropping the restrictions from airlines as they boosted security.

On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a revised directive to airlines around the world in response to requests that it clarify aviation security measures scheduled to begin taking effect later this week.

The directive gave airlines more flexibility and additional time to obtain explosive trace detection equipment. The official was not authorized to discuss sensitive security issues with the media and requested anonymity.

Homeland Security, has said that it could impose another laptop ban, if the airlines do not make security upgrades.

Itunuoluwa