Nearly two decades after the 2006 terror plot that led to restrictions on carrying liquids aboard aircraft, the 100ml rule remains in force at most UK airports. However, a growing number of airports have upgraded their security scanners, allowing passengers to carry containers of up to two litres in hand luggage.
Which UK airports have scrapped the 100ml rule?
Passengers flying from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Edinburgh Airport, Birmingham Airport, Bristol Airport, Belfast International Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport, and Bournemouth Airport can now take liquids in containers of up to two litres. These airports have installed advanced computed tomography (CT) scanners that can detect explosives in larger volumes, eliminating the need to remove liquids from bags.
UK airports still enforcing the 100ml rule
The majority of UK airports continue to require passengers to adhere to the 100ml limit and place liquids in a clear, resealable plastic bag. The list includes:
- 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)
According to government guidance, passengers should always check their departure airport's official website before travelling, as rules can change at short notice.
What counts as a liquid?
Many travellers are unaware that semi-liquid foods such as soup, jam, honey, syrups, nut butters, and soft cheeses are classified as liquids and must comply with the 100ml rule where it applies. The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) uses a helpful guideline: if you can spill it, spread it, spray it, pump it, or pour it, it counts as a liquid. While not an official UK regulation, this can help passengers determine what needs to be packed in checked luggage.
Consider return airport rules
Even if your departure airport has scrapped the 100ml rule, your return airport may still enforce it. Most European airports continue to apply the traditional restrictions. Passengers are advised to pack large liquid items in checked luggage for the return journey to avoid confiscation at security.
Additional tips for hand luggage
Regardless of the liquid limits, travellers should avoid using metal or double-walled bottles, such as Thermos flasks, as security scanners cannot penetrate the insulated layers. The gov.uk website provides a comprehensive list of items classed as liquids.
