Updated December 15, 2023
Published December 9, 2022
By Anna Hardy and Jacob Lewis
The days of overpriced mini toiletries and long airport security queues could soon be over! Say goodbye to squeezing your favourite shampoo into tiny bottles – the 100ml liquid rule in hand luggage is on its way out, thanks to some cool new scanning tech.
Airports like London City Airport are already ahead of the game, with the new scanning equipment already installed. Meanwhile, Heathrow is running a bit behind schedule and won't ditch the old rules until mid-2025.
Wondering how this will affect your next trip? Here's all you need to know about these changes and what they mean for you.
What does it mean for passengers?
The changes will mean you can carry any amount of liquid in your hand luggage – a freedom passengers haven’t had since 2006 when the restrictions were first introduced as an anti-terrorism measure. This rule relaxation is already a reality at London City Airport and will soon be at other UK airports.
As it stands, liquids over 100ml are among the items that cannot be carried in hand luggage. The current rules also limit the amount of individual liquid items to a maximum of ten per person, all of which must fit in one 20cm x 20cm clear plastic bag. However, with the policy update, you’ll be able to carry what you need onboard, including full-sized toiletries, make-up, and bottled drinks – a glimpse at greater freedom when planning and packing your short-haul luggage.
It is worth noting that airline hand luggage allowances remain unchanged. As always, it will pay to check the hand luggage size and weight restrictions before loading up your bags with heavy full-sized shampoos and lotions.
How will it work?
New 3D baggage screening equipment will replace the older 2D machines. These advanced CT scanners produce a high-resolution 3D scan, allowing for accurate inspection of liquids without their removal from bags.
The new technology is already proving a game changer for airport security and enhancing passenger experience.
What does it mean for airports?
The changes could significantly reduce queuing times in airport security. Currently, removing items for scanning causes delays. With the new technology, there will be no need to separate liquids from luggage or contain them within a plastic bag, benefiting both queuing time and the environment.
Will this be the case at all airports?
The new 3D scanners are being tested at major UK airports, with the aim to roll them out by 2024. Heathrow, however, will not meet this deadline due to structural issues and will delay its implementation until mid-2025.
Shannon Airport in Ireland and London City Airport and Teesside International in the UK have already adopted this technology.
When will it take effect?
The Department for Transport has mandated that the older screening technology must be replaced by mid-2024. However, Heathrow's upgrade is expected by mid-2025. Leeds Bradford Airport anticipates completing their installation by February 2024.
While the 100ml rule is still in place at some airports, notably Heathrow, it’s important to stay updated as changes roll out.
Which airports have already rolled out the new scanners?
London City Airport and Teesside International Airport have already implemented the new scanners.
Which airports will be ready ahead of the deadline?
Leeds Bradford Airport is on track to have its new scanners fully operational by February 2024, ahead of the government's June 2024 deadline.
Will all airports besides Heathrow meet the government's June 2024 deadline?
Most major UK airports are expected to meet the June 2024 deadline. However, this is subject to change, and it’s advisable to follow updates from individual airports.
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