Brits warned of little-known airport rule that could see phones confiscated

24 April 2024 , 08:27

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The rules could see your phone or e-cigarette taken from you by security (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A small mobile phone mistake could see you blocked from taking tech on a flight.

While each airline has its own set of hand luggage restrictions, with Ryanair, Jet2, TUI, and easyJet all having a list of no-go items for passengers, there's a particular regulation concerning electronic devices that travellers might not be clued up on, reports Birmingham Live.

Another potential problem is that if you've got an electronic device that won't turn on, you could be barred from bringing it on board. The UK Foreign Office 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."

While it's unlikely everyone will need to demonstrate their device's functionality, don't be surprised by random checks at airport security. Despite this rule being well-established in the UK, it seems some flyers are still in the dark.

You may be asked to turn phones on if they are switched off (Getty Images)

Travel gurus from International Citizens Insurance have issued a stark warning to holidaymakers, stressing that it can be quite the eye-opener for those not clued up on airline policies. They caution: "If you cannot turn on your devices when requested by security personnel, they can take it from you, placing your holiday snaps in jeopardy."

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British Airways lays down the law with its stringent safety guidelines for flyers packing electronic gear. It states: "You can generally take electric and electronic items in your hand or checked baggage, but you 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."

EasyJet's rules make clear: "You also need to make sure that your device stays charged if it runs out of battery and you can't turn it on to scan your boarding pass as required, easyJet cannot accept responsibility if you are as a result not able to fly."

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Emily Chaplin