UK follows US lead, bans uncharged gadgets from flights with even stricter rules

Earlier this week, we were all shocked to read that some US flight operators would be introducing new and VERY strict security rules about taking gadgets on flights into the States. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) revealed that if you try to take a gadget on a flight and it isn’t charged up, you may be forced to leave it behind. Ouch.

Well now it seems that the UK is following the TSA’s lead, as a Department of Transport spokesperson revealed that flights in and out of the country will be just as strict when it comes to fondling your gadgets:

‘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.’

It seems like the UK could be set to take these new security laws to the next level, as reports are suggesting that not only will you risk losing your phone if it’s not charged up, but you might also risk losing your seat (!!), even if you offer to part with your gadget at the gate?! Yeah, we don’t really understand that last bit either.

Sources are hinting that the new laws are in response to a security threat and may not be in place forever, but either way, ensuring your phone is charged up before you head to the airport this summer is now just as important as ensuring you’ve packed your passport.

Image via catlintobias’ flickr.