UK airport security rules change at London City which is first to scrap 100ml liquid rule and need for laptops out of bags
The first UK airport to scrap the rules surrounding liquid limits for travellers says it plans to do so before the Easter holidays.
Restrictions around taking liquids and laptops through airport security are to begin changing from this year reducing 'hassle' for passengers.
And London City Airport says it will be the first this year to have enough new scanning technology to speed things up for passengers.
Robert Sinclair, the airport’s CEO, said: "London City is continuing to move in the right direction. And the good news for anyone planning a holiday or a business trip is that we will be the first mainstream UK airport to offer a fully CT security experience from the end of this month. The new lanes will not only cut hassle, but also cut queuing times, which I know passengers will love."
The government is giving airports until June 2024 to install new scanning technology that will eventually spell the end of the 100ml rule for liquids being passed through security.
Passengers are also currently 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 in order to remain visible to staff.
But travellers leaving the UK will soon be able to leave their liquids in their cabin luggage, with limits increased up to two litres in most cases, while large electrical items such as laptops won't need to be removed from bags at checkpoints.
And rather than weakening airport security - the Department for Transport says checks will be more stringent as high-tech scanners will give security staff more detailed images of what people are carrying.
Speaking in December, 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."
Until the changes are introduced by each UK airport, passengers must continue following any rules in place and check the latest restrictions with the airport they're flying from before setting off.
Travellers must also be aware that while the UK may be gradually changing its rules - their destination and subsequent return airport may have alternative restrictions they will need to abide by when flying back home.
Christopher Snelling, policy director at The Airport Operators Association (AOA), added: "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."