UK airports are preparing for a busy October half-term as thousands of families plan to travel abroad. Holidaymakers have been warned to prepare for new security rules that vary between airports.
Some UK airports have upgraded their security scanners, allowing travellers to carry up to 2 litres of liquid through security without removing liquids from hand luggage. Additional rules have also been introduced for security checks, which can differ from airport to airport.
Heathrow issues update to travellers
Heathrow Airport shared an update with travellers and issued a warning. On X, formerly Twitter, the UK's largest airport shared its "top tips" for going through security and warned: "Security requirements may vary by destination, both within and outside the UK."
Heathrow has upgraded its security scanners. On the airport website, they confirmed: "You can now keep liquids and large electronic items in your cabin bag, so getting through security is quicker and easier." They outlined that passengers passing through Heathrow should keep liquids in their cabin bag, carry liquids in containers of up to 2 litres each, empty metal and insulated bottles before security (refilling them after), and keep laptops, tablets and other large electronic items in their bag.
Rules vary across UK airports
The change is thanks to new CT scanners that provide security staff with detailed 3D images of bags. However, Heathrow warned that "not all airports use the same security equipment". They said: "If you're flying from another UK or international airport, check the local security rules before you travel. Liquid limits and security checks may be different." They further explained that "many airports outside Heathrow still have a 100ml liquids limit" and it's best to check the rules before travelling. This also applies to UK airports, with many still operating the 100ml rule.
UK airports that have ditched the 100ml rule include Belfast International, Belfast City, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Gatwick and London Heathrow. Airports that still have the 100ml liquid rule include Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Cardiff, East Midlands, Glasgow International, Glasgow Prestwick, Inverness, Isle of Man, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London City, London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, Southampton and Teesside.
While many UK airports still have the 100ml liquid rule in place, some have relaxed measures. A number of airports no longer require travellers to store liquids in a clear plastic bag, and liquids can be kept in hand luggage when going through security. As specific rules can vary, it's best to check directly with the airport you're flying from, especially in the run-up to the October half-term.
