Hand luggage liquid limits to be relaxed at airports in the UK.
Edinburgh and Birmingham airports have become the first in the UK to lift the 100ml liquid rule due to the successful implementation of new 3D CT scanning technology at their security checkpoints. This advanced technology allows passengers to keep liquids and laptops in their bags, enhancing security efficiency and reducing queues.
The phased rollout of this technology across different airports explains why Edinburgh and Birmingham are ahead in lifting the restrictions. Many other UK airports have installed the scanners but have not yet received full regulatory approval to lift the 100ml rule, meaning they still enforce the old limits. The introduction of this technology is part of a broader effort to modernize airport security systems, aiming to replace traditional X-ray machines with more sophisticated scanning capabilities.
The 100ml limit was initially introduced in 2006 as a response to a terror plot, and its removal marks a significant shift in airport security practices. However, passengers are advised that the rules may vary on their return journey, depending on the airport's technology status.
Passengers at Edinburgh and Birmingham Airports can now take containers of up to two litres in their hand luggage. Large electricals, such as tablets and laptops, can also remain in bags at these airports. Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh Airport, stated that the lifting of the 100ml rule would transform the security process and make it easier for everyone.
While the UK is leading the way in this change, it is important to note that the 100ml rule remains widely in effect around the world. Some European airports, such as Helsinki, Milan, Shannon, and Rome, have new scanners and allow liquids in hand luggage in a transparent plastic bag, despite the 100ml rule still being in place in Europe.
The Department of Transport has signaled that airports can start rolling out new scanners one by one. However, the implementation of the new technology at larger airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick caused a delay, leading to the postponement of the rule change across the board. Birmingham Airport, which made the change last week, claims that the new ruling will enable a faster and more efficient processing of hand luggage.
Passengers are encouraged to continue checking the situation at their return airport, as not all airports will be moving away from the 100ml rule just yet. The change at Birmingham Airport comes in time for the summer peak, offering a more convenient travel experience for many. The successful implementation of 3D CT scanning technology at UK airports could pave the way for similar changes at airports around the world.
- The successful deployment of 3D CT scanning technology in Edinburgh and Birmingham airports has prompted a wave of change across Europe, with Helsinki, Milan, Shannon, and Rome airports also adopting similar technology to allow liquids in hand luggage.
- Despite the practical implementation of new scanning technology at some airports, the 100ml rule remains widely in effect worldwide, indicating that the transition to more sophisticated security systems is a gradual process.
- While the Department of Transport allows airports to roll out new scanners, the implementation at larger airports like Heathrow and Gatwick has caused delays, meaning that the removal of the 100ml rule is yet to become a universally applicable regulation.
- The arrival of the summer peak season presents an opportune moment for travelers, as the change at Birmingham Airport, allowing containers up to two liters in hand luggage and fast-tracking hand luggage processing, facilitates a more convenient travel experience for many London-bound passengers.
