Being forced to switch on smartphones at airport security may lead to delays
US says electronics to get closer checks amid fears militants are developing new explosives that could be slipped onto planes undetected
Air passengers with smartphones or other electronic devices must be able to turn them on to take them aboard under new security measures, US authorities said on Sunday.
US-bound passengers from Europe and the Middle East have faced tighter airport security in recent days over fears that militants linked to al-Qaeda are developing new explosives that could be slipped onto planes undetected.
The checks focused on electronic items such as laptops and smartphones, amid fears that extremists could use them as their latest tactic in a long campaign of attacks involving jets.
“During the security examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including cellphones,” the US Transportation Security Administration said in a statement, noting that all electronic devices are screened by security officers.
“Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. The traveller may also undergo additional screening.”
The agency noted that it could “adjust” security measures further to provide maximum security to passengers.