British Airways has issued advice urging passengers to carry a copy of their prescription for any medication in their hand luggage to prevent delays at security checks. The guidance, published on the airline's website, aims to help travellers have a smoother experience on travel days.
Key Recommendation from British Airways
In the baggage FAQ section, British Airways states: 'We recommend you carry a copy of the prescription for your medication to avoid delays at security or customs.' The airline emphasises that essential medications should be packed in hand luggage, specifically in a smaller under-seat bag, rather than larger cabin bags that may be checked on busy flights.
Passengers are advised to pack enough medication for personal use on board and for the first few days of their journey, in case hold baggage is delayed. 'Avoid packing medication in your larger cabin bag as you may be asked to put it into the hold on busy flights,' the airline warns.
Rules for Liquids Over 100ml
According to UK government guidance on Gov.uk, passengers are allowed to carry essential medicines in containers larger than 100ml in hand luggage, but must provide proof that the medication is prescribed to them, such as a doctor's letter or a copy of the prescription. This applies only to liquid medications in containers over 100ml. Tablet forms or liquids in containers 100ml or smaller do not require proof.
Gov.uk also advises that medicines containing controlled drugs must be carried in hand luggage when entering or leaving the UK, and may be confiscated at the border if passengers cannot prove they were prescribed.
Additional Tips for Travellers
British Airways recommends that additional medication for personal use at the destination can be packed in checked baggage, as long as enough is carried in hand luggage for a few days. The airline's website provides these updates to help passengers avoid common pitfalls during security checks.
