New security measures to come into effect at Heathrow by summer with more UK airports to follow - how it will affect travellers
The new technology represents the biggest innovation in the aviation industry in recent years
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Passengers travelling through Heathrow will soon carry more than 100ml of liquids in their hand luggage as hig tech scanners are rolled out at the airport by summer.
The end of the 100ml liquid rules for plane passenger could see Britons depart the UK with up to two litres in their hand luggage.
Airports had aimed to implement the new technology by 2022, but the deadline was delayed till June 2024.
Heathrow Airport currently has the technology in place at Terminals 2, 3 and 5 but aims to complete the rollout by summer.
Heathrow will complete the technology rollout by summer 2024
PA
A DFT spokesman said: “We are in regular contact with airports as they move towards the June 2024 deadline for upgrading their screening equipment and processes.”
The scanners were tested in 2018 and are already in use at London City Airport and Teesside Airport.
The ban on liquid was put in place as a security measure against terrorism threats in 2006.
The update means travellers will be able to carry up to two litres of liquid and toiletries, which have historically been placed in separate bags.
With the deadline for the project fast approaching, Gatwick is expected to scrap the limit on liquids in the coming months.
Although UK airports will be using the scanners by summertime, Britons are advised to check the rules and regulations at international travel hubs.
Matthew Hall, managing director for the airport transport app Hoppa, issued the warning to Britons heading abroad.
He said: “Once fully in place, the new rules will make it easier and convenient for passengers to bring large tech devices, toiletries and liquid gifts through security control.
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Britons will soon depart the UK with up to two litres of liquids in their hand luggage
PA
“You will need to check which rules apply at your department and destination airport though.”
The expert advised passengers to err on the side of caution and continue packing with the 100ml liquid rule in mind as the technology is rolled out.
“While the UK Government has set that June 2024 target, other countries operate according to their [...] timelines," noted Hall.
“If you depart from an airport with the new scanners and have to go through security again at your connecting airport, or when you return, you could find that some of your items are confiscated if that airport still has the 100ml rule in place."
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