Airlines may start supplying terrorists with free chargers for their electronic gear.
Why the Department of Homeland Security wants that result isn’t clear.
Jeff John Roberts reports in: Security order bans uncharged devices from some US-bound flights:
International air travelers heading to the U.S. now face another potential headache in security lines: they may not be able to board their plane unless they are able to turn on their phones, laptops and other electronic devices.
According to a new order announced on Sunday by the Department of Homeland Security:
“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 new order, which did not specify which particular airports will be subject to the decree, comes after earlier expressions of concern by U.S. concern that devices might be used as a shell to contain a bomb.
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The new measures may add to already-arduous wait times at the airport, though the security expert cited by the Journal suggested that airlines may rush to provide chargers to passengers who are waiting to board.
If you arrive at an airport with a bomb and its battery is dead, guess what? You can’t detonate it.
Don’t worry though. The airlines will soon be be supplying free chargers so you can charge the battery for your explosive device. Plus you can turn your device on and off for the TSA.
I don’t suppose it ever occurred to the DHS that the extruded shells of carry on baggage could be made to hold a fair amount of explosive plus battery? Hermetically sealed it would have no odors or imagery to betray its owner.
If the only return we get from the war on terrorism is more electrical sockets in airports, I say it hasn’t been worth the effort.