Airport security: Hated 100ml liquid rule to be SCRAPPED - Big travel changes on way

The Government has announced that rules around taking liquids and laptops through airport security will be eased from June 2024.

New rules mean passengers will be able to carry liquids in containers holding up to two litres (2000ml) at most major UK airports.

The current 100ml limit will be scrapped in the biggest relaxation of aviation security regulations in decades.

Travellers will also no longer need to carry the containers in clear plastic bags or remove tablets and laptops from hand luggage at security checkpoints.

The 100ml liquid limit at airports will be scrapped
Diego Garcia Rodriguez

New legislation will be laid out in Parliament on Thursday with the Department for Transport adding that major airports will be required to install new technology to gives security staff more detailed images of what is in passengers’ bags.

Current airport security rules were introduced in 2006 following a foiled terror plot to blow up planes flying from London to the US with home-made liquid bombs.

New CT scanners will create a 3D image of what is inside passengers’ bags and is already being used at overseas airports such as Schiphol in Amsterdam and several in the US.

The new technology will be installed by June 2024 following several trials at airports which started in 2018.

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 two years to be fully implemented.

“Until then, passengers must continue following the existing rules and check before travelling.”

The Government has announced that the liquid limit rule will be increased to 2000ml
Gareth Fuller

Travellers failing to comply with current liquid rules in the UK is one of the biggest causes of delays at airport security.

Christopher Snelling, policy director at industry body the Airport Operators Association, 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.”