Major UK airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester are expected to miss the 1 June 2024 deadline for installing new security scanners that would end the 100ml liquid limit. The government had mandated the installation of advanced CT X-ray scanners, which allow liquids up to two litres and laptops to remain in bags.
Consumer group Which? warned the incomplete rollout could cause confusion during the summer holidays, as passengers may expect uniform rules across all UK airports. Some airports, like Teesside and London City, have already completed installation, but others will have mixed lanes with old and new scanners.
Reasons for delays include the scanners' weight requiring floor reinforcement, high costs, supply chain issues, and staff training. Heathrow, with 146 security lanes, cannot guarantee completion by June. Gatwick expects to finish early 2025, and Manchester Airports Group aims for 2025.
The Department for Transport may grant extensions but has not ruled out penalties for missed deadlines. Which? travel editor Rory Boland said differing rules could cause hold-ups, urging airports to communicate clearly with passengers. Abta advised travellers to check rules at both departure and return airports.
