Passengers travelling to the US may face serious problems at the airport if their gadgets are not charged. Travellers who arrive at the airport with dead cellphones, laptops and other gadgets will be stopped from boarding the plane. US Security Transport Administration says “Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. The traveller may also undergo additional screening.” Turning on the device will ensure that it’s a working equipment and not hidden explosive. They are also likely to introduce more security checks in the future.
Following in the footsteps of the US, the UK Department of Transport has also banned uncharged equipments on flights. Travellers boarding flights towards the Middle East and Asia are more likely to face these checks. British Airways said, “Customers may be asked to turn on any electronic or battery powered devices such as telephones, tablets, e-books and laptops in front of security teams and/or demonstrate the item’s functionality and when asked to do so, if you are unable to demonstrate that your device has power, the device will not be allowed to travel on your planned service.” However, British Airways is willing to deliver your uncharged device back to your home or you can also deposit the device and collect it on your return trip.
Any new device that has been purchased at the airport also needs to be charged before the boarding, otherwise you’ll have to book another flight.