All passengers leaving UK airports on flights to the United States may now be required to show that electronic devices in their hand luggage are powered up before boarding an aircraft.

In new advice to travellers, the department of transport warned those unable to power up devices could face not being allowed to bring the device onto the aircraft.

The move follows warnings of potential terrorist threats in the US.

Government sources refused to comment in detail on the routes affected.

“We will work with the aviation industry to minimise disruption as far as possible,” explained a statement.

“The UK has some of the most robust aviation security measures in the world and we will continue to take all the steps necessary to ensure that public safety is maintained.”

British Airways said in a statement that customers would be able to leave a device which they cannot power up behind at an airport.

They would then be asked to either collect it on their return, or have it forwarded to another address.

Secretary for transport Patrick McLoughlin explained in a statement to the House of Commons: “In conjunction with our 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 it goes without saying that at all times the safety and security of the public is our paramount concern.”