UK airports have confirmed they are running as usual following a US warning of a 'credible' terrorism threat. A senior US Department of Homeland Security official told the BBC that no delays to inbound flights are expected in the next few days, and new measures have yet to be formally implemented.
Heathrow and Gatwick both said they were operating 'as normal', while Manchester Airport staff are swabbing hand luggage. Downing Street acknowledged an 'evolving threat' to the UK and other countries but urged people to travel as usual.
US officials believe Islamist terrorists are developing bombs that could evade routine checks, with al-Qaeda affiliates in Syria and Yemen working together on such devices. Security measures are being tightened for flights to the US from around the world.
Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin did not specify the security steps involved but ruled out 'significant disruption' to passengers. Prime Minister David Cameron said the government had discussed the issue with the US and decided to bring in 'extra precautions'.
Manchester Airport reported increased queues earlier but said waiting times had returned to normal. One passenger described queuing for over an hour as an 'unpleasant experience'.
