British Airways is reminding passengers that electronic devices such as laptops and tablets must be fully charged before travel, as they may be asked to switch them on during airport security checks. The airline warns that devices that do not power on may not be permitted in the cabin.
Charging rule at security
According to the airline's website, passengers should ensure their devices are functioning and fully charged before arriving at the airport. The advice states: "At airport security, you may be asked to turn on any electronic devices you want to take into the cabin. Please ensure they are functioning and fully charged before you travel, or they may not be allowed on board."
British Airways also advises that small electronic devices like laptops and tablets should be carried in hand baggage for both security and safety reasons. Spare device batteries and power packs must be carried in the smaller under-seat item of hand baggage, as they are not permitted in the aircraft hold under any circumstances.
Checked baggage rules
If passengers choose to pack laptops or similar devices in checked luggage, they must be completely switched off, not in sleep or hibernation mode, and protected from accidental activation and damage. The airline also reminds travellers to ensure their travel insurance covers their electronic items, as it will refuse claims for damage, removal, or loss of electrical devices from hold baggage.
The guidance aligns with rules from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and GOV.UK, which state that portable electronic devices with lithium batteries should be carried as carry-on baggage, and if checked, must be completely switched off. GOV.UK adds that devices that do not switch on when requested will not be allowed onto the aircraft.
