Phones, laptops and tablets larger than 16.0cm x 9.3cm x 1.5cm will not be allowed in the cabin on flights to the UK from Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Tunisia.
FURTHER UPDATE: 12:32 30th MARCH 2017 - As well as laptops, tablets and e-readers, spare batteries and portable power sources will now not be allowed in hand luggage and must be placed in the hold. This includes duty-free purchases of these devices in the airport. There will be no restrictions on regular-sized mobile phones, including the iPhone 7 Plus or Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge.
Today the government announced there will be changes to aviation security measures for selected inbound flights to the United Kingdom. The United States government made a similar announcement earlier today regarding flights to the United States and the foregin office have been in close contact with them to fully understand their position.
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. The foreign office 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 UKfrom the following locations:
Turkey
Lebanon
Egypt
Saudi Arabia
Jordan
Tunisia
If you are travelling to one of these destinations - please contact your Personal Travel Agent for further advice.
The foreign office understands the frustration that these measures may cause and we are working with the aviation industry to minimise any impact. Their top priority will always be to maintain the safety of British nationals. These new measures apply to flights into the UK and we are not currently advising against flying to and from those countries. Those with imminent travel plans should contact their Personal Travel Agent for further information.
More information can be found on the Department for Transport website and the travelling public should consult the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s travel advice pages on GOV.UK.