There is a little-known detail that can turn a simple boarding trip into a real hassle: if you take a cell phone without a battery, it could be confiscated at the airport security check. The rule, in force at all UK airports and recommended by the International Civil Aviation Organization for all of Europe, can affect travelers even with a confirmed ticket and check-in, according to the Daily Express newspaper.
In recent years, aviation authorities have reinforced security measures related to the transport of electronic equipment. The standard determines that any device capable of storing energy must be able to be turned on at the time of inspection.
The objective is to ensure that the device has not been altered or used for illicit purposes, as security agents are unable to verify the contents of equipment that does not turn on. A lack of battery may therefore raise suspicion and result in the item being seized.
Measure applied at airports
The recommendation is clear on the official British Government portal: “Make sure your electronic devices are charged before traveling. If your equipment does not turn on when requested, you will not be allowed to take it on board.”
Devices covered include cell phones, laptops, tablets, cameras and portable consoles. Even power banks and wireless headphones can be checked, depending on the instructions of the agent responsible for security screening, says the same source.
When the device does not turn on, agents may choose to temporarily retain it or permanently confiscate it. At some airports, passengers receive a receipt that allows them to claim the item later, but this is not always possible.
What the airlines say
British Airways reminds us on its website that “all electronic equipment must be charged and ready to be connected before passing through security”. Otherwise, the passenger may be forced to leave it behind.
The company also warns that, on flights with a stopover, travelers should avoid completely discharging their devices during the first stage, as charging points may be limited and the use of adapters is not always viable.
TUI Airways follows the same line, stating that “discharged electronic devices may be subject to additional inspections and, if they do not turn on, they may be retained in control”. The company recommends keeping the devices turned on until boarding, as they can be tested again at the boarding gate.
Risk of losing equipment
The British newspaper Mirror reports that several passengers have already been left without their devices after inspections at British and European airports. The reason is simple: airport security cannot allow the transport of devices whose origin and status cannot be confirmed.
At Heathrow, for example, anyone who has retained equipment can use the Bagport service, responsible for the lost and found office. However, item recovery is not always guaranteed and may incur additional costs.
Ryanair, in turn, does not clarify what happens in cases of confiscation. The company only indicates that, if the cell phone or tablet runs out of battery after online check-in, the passenger can request a new free boarding pass at the airport, but does not mention what to do if the equipment is retained.
Universal rule that few know
The policy is widely applied regardless of the airline, be it Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways or TUI. The principle is the same: if the electronic device cannot be turned on, it may be confiscated and the passenger may be prevented from boarding.
According to , the European Union Aviation Safety Agency recommends that all travelers confirm the charge level of their devices before leaving home and carry a portable charger whenever possible.
A small oversight with big consequences
The loss of a cell phone or computer can represent a significant loss, in addition to the inconvenience caused at the start of a trip, so it is important to check the battery before leaving for the airport.
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