British Airways has introduced tougher regulations for passengers regarding a type of behaviour that could result in them being removed from the plane.

In an era dominated by influencers and content creators, using smartphones aboard aircraft has grown increasingly commonplace, with many travellers choosing to document every aspect of their journey through photos and videos. Even those without a substantial social media presence frequently capture their in-flight experience on camera.

While this may appear to be a largely innocent activity, it can in fact land passengers in considerable hot water, regardless of whether they are a content creator or not. British Airways has revised its passenger terms, bringing in more stringent guidelines surrounding the taking of photographs and videos on board.

In an update under section 11a on its 'behaviour on the aircraft' conditions, the airline stated: "If, while you are on board the aircraft, we reasonably believe that you have filmed, live-streamed or photographed our crew or other colleagues without their consent, we may take any measures we think reasonable to prevent you continuing your behaviour."

The airline further clarified that passengers who fail to adhere to these regulations could be asked to disembark upon landing or be denied carriage on the remaining sectors of the journey shown on their ticket. Furthermore, the incident could be reported to the relevant authorities "with a view to them prosecuting" the passenger for any criminal offences that may have been committed. BA also noted that if diversion costs arise as a result of unacceptable behaviour, and the aircraft is redirected to an "unscheduled place of destination" and a passenger is removed, that traveller will be liable for the "reasonable and proper costs of the diversion."

However, this does not mean passengers are entirely prohibited from taking photographs while on board. They are still free to snap their seat, the view from the window, cabin features, meals, drinks and other personal highlights - provided they do not directly film a member of cabin crew without their consent.

The same rule applies to photographing or filming fellow passengers on board without their permission. So, provided holidaymakers remain mindful of their surroundings and what they are capturing, they can still document their journey, whether for social media or a personal travel album.

BA is far from the only airline to enforce such rules, prohibiting photos of cabin crew without consent. Ryanair states in its terms and conditions: "Recording or photographing our personnel, whether at the airport or onboard the plane, without their consent is strictly prohibited. Only recordings or photographs personal to you may be permitted."