Passengers on US-bound flights are being warned of stricter security measures under which they might have to demonstrate that their portable electronic devices can be switched on.
The US Transportation Security Administration had already said it would be enhancing security measures at airports with flight connections to the USA, but had not detailed specific measures.
But the TSA has newly disclosed that electronic devices, in particular, will come under closer scrutiny.
Passengers carrying laptop computers, mobile phones or other electronic devices might be asked to power them up as part of pre-boarding security screening.
“Powerless devices will not be permitted on board the aircraft,” says the TSA.
The UK Department for Transport is similarly warning that passengers should make certain that electronic devices have sufficient charge in their batteries in order to demonstrate switch-on.
If the device fails to turn on, it stresses, passengers will not be able to take the equipment onto the flight.
The TSA adds that passengers with electronic equipment “may also undergo additional screening”.
Neither government organisation has given a specific reason for the security changes, but the TSA says that the Department for Homeland Security continually “re-evaluates” measures it takes to advance air transport security.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
