TSA: Don't Bring Uncharged Devices on US-Bound Flights

Passengers flying to the US from overseas should make sure their electronic devices are charged because they won't be allowed to board a plane with them otherwise, officials warn. The tighter scrutiny of electronic devices comes amid heavier security for US-bound flights from countries including the UK, France, and Germany, reports the BBC. "During the security examination, officers may also ask that owners power up some devices, including cell phones," the TSA said in a statement. "Powerless devices will not be permitted on board the aircraft. The traveller may also undergo additional screening."

Laptop computers will be among the devices that passengers will be requested to turn on, a security source tells NBC. Airport security will also be taking a look at passengers' phones and shoes as part of tighter inspections caused by fears al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula is working on bombs capable of evading most security measures. "In this instance, we felt that it was important to crank it up some at the last point-of-departure airports," Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson said on Meet the Press yesterday. "And we'll continually evaluate the situation." (More airport security stories.)