Airport security can be a hassle, particularly the 100ml liquid limit. For almost 20 years we’ve had to arrange travel-sized toiletries and place them in a clear bag before flying. However, new scanners being introduced should make things much easier for UK holidaymakers.
What’s changing?
The installation of new Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC) scanners should mean an end to the 100ml liquid limit. The scanners will allow airport staff to quickly analyse the contents of any bottles, without the need for them to be removed from your luggage or placed in a separate bag.
The same will be true of electronic devices such as laptops or tablets. This means they can stay safely packed among your belongings, reducing the risk of them being damaged or forgotten in a busy airport security queue.
What does it mean for me?
The new system is expected to make your journey through the airport quicker and more convenient.
- There will be no need to make sure toiletries or other liquids are in containers under 100ml, and they won’t need to be placed in a clear bag.
- Electronic devices can be left in your hand luggage and won’t need to be scanned separately.
- As a result, queues at airport security should be shorter and there will be less waiting time.
- You won’t have the hassle of unpacking and repacking your bag at security, meaning less chance of items being broken or going missing.
When is this happening?
The changes were due to be in place by mid-2024, and many smaller airports such as London City, Leeds Bradford, and Southend have already introduced the new scanners. However, many of these have temporarily re-introduced the 100ml limit while the full changes are implemented.
Larger airports, such as Heathrow and Gatwick, have many more security lines, and swapping to the new scanners is a much bigger task. These airports have warned that they may not be ready to relax the travel rules until mid-2025.
Wherever you’re travelling from, it’s important to check with the airport before you arrive.