Terror threats: UK issues travel advice on electronic devices

All passengers flying into or out of the United Kingdom (UK) are being advised to ensure electronic and electrical devices in hand luggage are sufficiently charged to be switched on.

Extra security checks came in at some UK airports last week for flights to the US, but these will now be extended.

The government says the checks apply to unspecified flights to and from the UK.

It comes after an apparent terror threat prompted the US to announce extra security checks last week.

But the Department for Transport (DfT) has now issued updated guidelines, saying: “In line with the US advice, 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.

“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.”

The department said that “for obvious reasons” it would not elaborate on the routes affected.

“We will work with the aviation industry to minimise disruption as far as possible,” said a spokesman.