Britain takes US advice to ban powerless devices on flights

The United Kingdom has followed America's lead to ban uncharged mobile devices from being allowed on flights entering or leaving the country.

The United States this week announced passengers travelling into the US from certain airports in Europe, the Middle East and Africa would have to prove their mobile devices had power before being allowed to board. 

The strict security measures were put in place to avoid terrorist attacks amid concerns that mobile phones, tablets, laptops and other electronic devices could be used as an explosive device. 

US security officials have previously identified Apple iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones as requiring extra checks.

The Australian Department of Infrastructure earlier this week confirmed Australia had not been asked by the US to implement the enhanced security restrictions. 

The UK Government today announced it would follow advice given by the United States and implement measures to require passengers on "some routes" in and out of the UK to prove their electronic devices were charged.

Those with uncharged devices would not be allowed to bring them onto the aircraft, the UK Department of Transport said in an advisory today. 

"Passengers flying into or out of the UK are therefore advised to make sure electronic devices being carried in their hand luggage are charged before they travel."

It declined to comment on which routes would be affected.

UK Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin told the nation's parliament there was no change to the threat level, which remained at substantial. 

"We face a constantly evolving threat from terrorism and must respond accordingly to ensure the protection of the public against those who would do us harm," he said. 

"The update we are making to our security measures is an important part of that process. While we do everything we can, where possible, to minimise the disruption to people’s journeys, we will continue to take all the steps necessary to ensure that public safety is maintained."