The transport secretary, Chris Grayling, said the UK had been in close touch with the US to understand their approach: “In conjunction with international partners and the aviation industry, the UK government keeps aviation security under constant review.
The UK has some of the most robust aviation security measures in the world and at all times the safety and security of the public is our primary concern. We will not hesitate to put in place measures we believe are necessary, effective and proportionate.”
Under the new arrangements, phones, laptops and tablets larger than:
- length: 16.0cm
- width: 9.3cm
- depth: 1.5cm
will not be allowed in the cabin on selected flights to the UK from the countries affected. Most smart phones fall within these limits and will continue to be allowed on board. However, devices larger than these dimensions may not be carried in the cabin. This is in addition to other existing security arrangements.
This will apply to inbound flights to the UK from the following locations: Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Tunisia.
Passengers are therefore advised to check online with their airline for further details.
