Since a terror plot was foiled in 2006, UK air passengers have been limited to carrying liquids in containers of under 100ml, kept in a clear, resealable 20cm x 20cm plastic bag. However, new scanning technology has allowed some airports to scrap the rule, permitting liquids up to two litres.
Airports Still Enforcing the 100ml Rule
The following UK airports continue to require passengers to adhere to the 100ml liquid restriction:
- Manchester Airport (MAN)
- London Stansted (STN)
- London Luton (LTN)
- Glasgow Airport (GLA)
- Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK)
- Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL)
- Newcastle International Airport (NCL)
- Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA)
- East Midlands Airport (EMA)
- London City Airport (LCY)
- Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ)
- Jersey Airport (JER)
- Cardiff International Airport (CWL)
- Southampton Airport (SOU)
- Inverness Airport (INV)
- Cornwall Airport Newquay (NQY)
Airports That Have Scrapped the 100ml Rule
These airports now allow liquids up to two litres in hand luggage, thanks to upgraded security scanners:
- London Heathrow (LHR)
- London Gatwick (LGW)
- Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
- Birmingham Airport (BHX)
- Bristol Airport (BRS)
- Belfast International Airport (BFS)
- George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD)
- Bournemouth Airport (BOH)
Important Considerations for Travellers
Even at airports where the 100ml rule is scrapped, travellers should avoid metal or double-walled bottles (e.g., Thermos flasks) as scanners cannot penetrate insulated layers. The GOV.UK website lists items considered liquids, including semi-liquid foods like soup, jam, honey, syrups, nut butters, and soft cheeses. The US TSA rule—if you can spill it, spread it, spray it, pump it, or pour it, it counts as a liquid—is a helpful guideline for UK travellers.
Liquid rules can change with little notice, so always check your departure airport's official website before flying. Also note that return airports, especially in Europe, may still enforce the 100ml rule, potentially requiring you to place larger liquids in checked baggage.
