US and UK Implement Additional Security Measures
In a response to what is a 'credible security threat', authorities in the United States and United Kingdom have implemented additional security measures on flights involving their countries.
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Under new US security rules, passengers flying to the US must have their electronic devices, particularly mobile phones and tablets, charged when passing through a security checkpoint. Random checks by security screeners are in place to ensure compliance. The devices must be switched on when requested otherwise passengers have to leave them behind. Checks like this have been set as a condition for carriers to continue nonstop flights to/from the US. While the rules apply to any mobile device, Reuters reports that Apple and Samsung devices are being singled out.
A similar measure is being implemented in the UK. In their version of the measure, the UK's Department for Transport says that electronic devices carried in hand luggage must be charged on flights into or out of Britain. Devices covered include mobile phones, tablets, laptops, music players, shavers, irons, hairdryers, hair-straighteners, cameras, and anything else that is battery-powered. Passengers who are unable to switch on their devices when requested can be denied boarding, leave the devices behind or recharge it until they can be switched on. For devices left behind, passengers can retrieve them upon their return but the specific procedures on how to do so will depend on the airline they are flying with.
Although the specific threat was not identified by authorities, analysts suggest that these measures are likely a reaction to threats by Islamic militants in Syria and Yemen to build bombs that can evade existing security checks at airports.
Philippine Airlines, which mounts nonstop flights to the US and UK, has not yet released an advisory at this time regarding these measures. However, they have historically adopted additional measures for flights proceeding directly to the US. This includes requiring all passengers to switch on laptops carried in their hand luggage before boarding.
Passengers are advised to charge their devices in advance before arriving at the airport.
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