Plan on heading to or leaving the United Kingdom in the near future via airplane? If that is the case, new measures are being put into place that require all electronic devices to be fully charged if they are to accompany you on the journey. Uncharged electronic devices will no longer be allowed on flights, the British Department for Transport announces.
The move follows the United States Transportation Security Administration's decision to bar uncharged electronic devices on a number of flights. The move has been met with little resistance as most travelers are likely to have their devices charged before flying.
"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," Britain's transport department said in a written statement.
"Passengers flying into or out of the UK are therefore advised to make sure electronic devices being carried in their hand luggage are charged before they travel."
Although the new measures are to be implemented immediately, it is currently unclear which airports and which flights will see the changes take effect. It could be akin to how the TSA implements rules and regulations, not informing passengers outwardly at first.
Good news, however, for American travelers, and likely to be similar in the UK -- passengers will be allowed to show that their devices do in fact work, even if the battery is dead, by plugging the device in and powering it up. Reports indicate that at the busier airports this might not be an option.
The move comes as increased security steps are being taken at airports. Mobile devices are seen as a potential threat. By ensuring the devices are charged and on, security personnel will be able to make certain the device is being used as intended.
With the increase in the number of planes that have power outlets on board, keeping your device powered is a lot easier than in years past. Officials have urged passengers to arrive at the airport with the devices fully charged to avoid any delays in getting to one's scheduled flight.
