Little-known airport security rule that could see your phone confiscated
Most travellers will have heard of the ongoing changes around safety rules for travelling with power banks and lithium batteries on board planes.
But there is another thing to be aware of when it comes to your electronic devices that could get you into trouble at airport security.
Passengers are being reminded of a little-known rule that could actually see phones and laptops confiscated if they have a flat battery.
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If your phone isn't charged at airport security you could get in trouble. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Guidelines around what you can and can't carry-on a plane are dictated by airlines and vary depending on who you're flying with.
But this is generally considered a universal security principle, whereby security can demand a device be powered on to verify its functionality, meaning a passenger with a flat battery could face issues, including delays or having the item seized.
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As reported by The Mirror recently, the UK government's official 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."
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A security officer may ask to verify the functionality of your devices. Getty
Many airlines in the UK have also responded to the updated security measures introduced by some airports to share similar advice online.
British Airways says on its website: "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."
Meanwhile, TUI's website reads: "If you're carrying any electronic devices in your hand luggage that are capable of holding a charge, you'll need to make sure they're fully charged when you go through airport security."
In Australia, the regulations focus more on the actual battery carriage and turning off devices for safety, with this detail not as widely publicised as past warnings in the UK and the US.
However, it is considered an international security measure to prove the device is functional and, for example, not an improvised explosive.
Changes are happening with the rules on taking power banks on board planes. Getty
Jetstar confirmed with 9Travel the airline doesn't have any specific guidance on that, but provides advice in relation to batteries on its website.
Devices with lithium batteries (like phones, laptops, and power banks) are highly recommended to be carried in carry-on baggage, not checked luggage.
If devices are in checked luggage, they must be completely switched off (not in sleep or hibernation mode) and protected from accidental activation or damage.
Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air were the latest two airlines to introduce strict new rules banning the use of power banks on board, following similar moves by Emirates and Singapore earlier this year.
