In the biggest airport security rules shake-up in decades, the government is to change the UK airport security rules to allow liquids and large electrical items to remain in hand baggage.
The UK airport security rules around taking liquids and large electrical items through airport security are set to change by 2024 with the installation of new technology at major airports across the UK.
Over the next two years, most major airports will introduce new cutting-edge technology into their security checkpoints, which will herald a new era of improved security and passenger experience when going through departures.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:
“The tiny toiletry has become a staple of airport security checkpoints, but that’s all set to change. I’m streamlining cabin bag rules at airports while enhancing security.
By 2024, major airports across the UK will have the latest security tech installed, reducing queuing times, improving the passenger experience, and most importantly detecting potential threats.
Of course, this won’t happen straight away – this is going to take 2 years to be fully implemented. Until then, passengers must continue following the existing rules and check before travelling”.
Current UK airport security rules mean passengers are required to remove tablets, laptops and liquids from their cabin baggage, while liquids have been limited to 100ml and must be in a clear plastic bag. This requirement will eventually be lifted, and the 100ml liquid container limit will be extended to two litres.
Airports now have until June 2024 to upgrade their screening equipment and processes. Until then, passengers must follow the same rules as now until further notice or unless told otherwise. Passengers should also check with their specific airport before travelling to see which rules are in place.
Christopher Snelling, Policy Director at The Airport Operators Association (AOA), said:
“This investment in next-generation security by the UK’s airport operators will provide a great step forward for UK air travel, matching the best in class around the world.
It will make the journey through the UK’s airports easier and air travel itself more pleasant.
The new deadline follows several trials conducted at some airports since 2018, which have demonstrated the effectiveness of this new screening equipment – which uses CT X-ray technology to essentially provide a 3D image of what’s in passengers’ bags, as well as deploying highly advanced threat detection algorithms. Similar technology is taking place in many countries globally, with airports such as Schiphol and in the US now also making use of the technology.
It will further enhance our airports’ ability to detect prohibited items but with greater convenience for passengers. The current liquids rules, which were introduced in 2006 following a terrorist threat, have been designed to stop those with hostile intent carrying liquid explosives onto planes.”
For more information on this please visit the travel section of Gov.UK
