Airports around the world can go into extra security measures at any time due a security incident. When this happens, your computer, phone or tablet my end up being confiscated or disallowed to be carried with you.
While Boarding
Anyone boarding a plane may be simply asked to demonstrate that their electronic devices such as smartphone or a computer can be opened and examined by security personnel. Usually things go smoothly when you are able to open and operate your devices normally.
Possible Scenarios and How to Deal With Them
1. Some travellers may not be able to switch on a device just because the device has a dead battery. When this happens you can charge the device immediately using your own charger or one provided by the airline (if available).
2. In case the charger is not available immediately, you can switch to a later flight and charge your device before continuing your journey. Most of the times changing flights will incur a fee.
3. You can choose to have the device confiscated if the Airline offers the service to ship the device back to your address for a fee.
4. Lastly, be prepared to lose you device forever – When it has become impossible for you to open the device and the Airline too does not offer the option of shipping the device to your address.
5. Make sure that you report to your department manager and IT department at the earliest opportunity in case your office laptop or phone is confiscated at the Airport.
Tips for Avoiding Problems at the Airport
You can easily save yourself from such problems by planning ahead and being well prepared for your travel.
1. Plan ahead for unexpected airline security measures by having your devices charged.
2. Carry all necessary cables and charging accessories with you.
3. Make sure that you know how to operate any device that you are carrying with you. This includes your phone, laptop, tablet, and hand held gaming system or any other device that you may be carrying with you personally or in your checked baggage.
4. Allow extra time to go through airport security and provide your full cooperation to the security staff. You need to remember that all this is happening to protect you and other passengers.
5. Make sure that you have backed up your files on a Cloud storage service or on a local storage device. This way you will not lose your data and work in case your device is confiscated at the airport.
6. It is a good practice to have a record of your device model and serial numbers somewhere. This will help in making efforts to get back your device and also in reporting to your department manager, in case your work computer or phone is confiscated.
7. In case of any doubts check with your travel agency or the airline that you are travelling with to inform you about the latest advice on electronic devices prior to travelling.
Hope you consider these tips as being helpful; do consider sharing these with others and helping them have a pleasant journey.