Airport passengers told they must have charged phones before boarding flight

Airport passengers have been told that they must have their electrical devices fully charged before boarding their flight.

Now that the kids summer holidays are well underway, many will be heading the the airport for a much-needed break.

Alongside the excitement of hopping on a plane, it's important for holiday-goers to keep an eye on hand luggage rules that could catch you out.

So basically, if your electronic devices aren't fully charged, whether that's your phone, laptop or iPad, they could be taken off you if requested by security.

Alamy

The UK Government website states: "Make sure your electronic devices are charged before you travel. If your device does not switch on when requested, you will not be allowed to take it onto the aircraft."

British Airways have elaborated on the rule and have said: "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 their 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."

Alamy

The US was the first to introduced the safety measures and were soon followed by the UK.

The US Security Administration (TSA) explains: "During the security examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including cell phones.

"Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft.

"The traveller may also undergo additional screening.”

Experts from from International Citizens Insurance also said: "If you cannot turn on your devices when requested by security personnel, they can take it from you, placing your holiday snaps in jeopardy."

Another thing to watch out for, as the Civil Aviation Authority reminds flyers, is that 'UK aviation security regulations forbid the carriage of liquids (including aerosols and gels) in hand baggage through the passenger security point in containers larger than 100ml'.

They added: "Larger containers may be placed in hold baggage or purchased after the security point, provided they comply with the dangerous goods limits in the links below."