Travelling abroad comes with its own set of rules and restrictions which holidaymakers must abide by. This includes some very strict rules surrounding what items can and can not be taken onboard an aircraft.
Following the alert, The Department for Transport issued a warning which read: “Passengers on some routes into and out of the UK may now also be required to show that electronic devices in their hand luggage are powered up or face not being allowed to bring the device onto the aircraft”.
Though not all passengers are stopped and asked to “switch on” their device, random spot checks are carried out at security.
This is why holidaymakers must ensure their devices have at least enough power to turn on should they be asked to do so.
Both British Airways and Virgin Atlantic urge passengers to take the necessary precautions to ensure their batteries do not run down.
British Airways has also kitted out its aircraft with USB charging ports so that travellers can charge up their devices while in transit.
On its website, the British-flag bearing airline states: “You can generally take electric and electronic items in your hand or checked baggage, but need to follow specific safety instructions.
“Airport security staff may ask you to turn on electronic or battery-powered devices, such as phones, tablets, e-books and laptops, to demonstrate they function.
“If you’re not able to do this, you will not be able to take your device with you.
“Please ensure that any items in your hand baggage are fully charged and switched on before you arrive at the airport. If your device is not charged, please place it in your checked baggage.
“If you are connecting, make sure that you do not deplete power in your devices during the first part of your journey as charging points at airports might be very limited and you may need an adapter.
“Passengers who have their devices confiscated are able to leave it with a member of the “customer service team and collect it on your return”.
British Airways adds: “If you want to take your device in your hand baggage, you can rebook to a later flight but will then need to ensure that it is charged ahead of your new flight. A fee might apply for changing your booking, subject to your ticket type.”
However, the airline notes these rules only apply to those departing Heathrow Airport.
A spokesperson from International Citizens Insurance said: “Ensuring everything you pack at home is allowed onto the plane is an easy way to prevent a stressful experience once you reach the airport.
“Some items you might not think as a problem when packing, but when safety is considered it becomes clear why they aren’t allowed in hand luggage.
“Having items removed from you and potentially being handed a fine is not how you want to start, or end, your trip away.
“Each airline may have different restrictions, so it’s important to check every time you fly.”