Looks like the inevitable traffic jams around airport
charging stations are about to get worse. In an official statement published
Sunday, the Transportation Security Administration said it will no longer allow
powerless cell phones, tablets and laptop computers on board.
The statement reads, “As the traveling public knows, all
electronic devices are screened by security officers. During the security
examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including
cell phones. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. The
traveler may also undergo additional screening.”
The news follows a statement from U.S. Homeland Security
Secretary Jeh Johnson saying, “I have directed TSA to implement enhanced
security measures in the coming days at certain overseas airports with direct
flights to the United States. We will work to ensure these necessary steps pose
as few disruptions to travelers as possible. We are sharing recent and relevant
information with our foreign allies and are consulting the aviation industry.”
While no reason was given for the change in policy, a
Reuters report from last week suggested a link between Johnson’s statement and
recent intelligence that al Qaeda-affiliated militant groups had devised a way
to turn iPhones and Samsung smart phones into undetectable bombs.
The TSA statement concluded, “TSA will continue to adjust
security measures to ensure that travelers are guaranteed the highest levels of
aviation security conducted as conveniently as possible.”
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