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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