Another UK airport scraps strict 100ml liquid rules in time for summer holidays

A REGIONAL airport in the UK has ditched the 100ml liquid rule – months before the June deadline.

At most airports across the country, holidaymakers currently have to remove items, such as liquids and electronics, from their hand luggage when going through airport security.

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However waiting to have luggage scanned can often cause delays, as people are forced to unpack their bags.

New technology is slowly being introduced at airports across the country that’s set to make the 100ml liquid rule a thing of the past.

As well as removing the need for people to take liquids out of their hand luggage, the new CT scanners will increase the liquid allowance to two litres.

Additionally, laptops and electronic items won’t need to be removed from hand luggage either, which will speed up the whole security process.

Last year, Teesside Airport became the first airport in the UK to ditch the 100ml liquid rule, while London City Airport became the second.

Earlier this week, Aberdeen International Airport became the third airport in the UK to install the scanners.

This means passengers travelling through Aberdeen International Airport can keep everything in their bags, instead of being asked to remove laptops and ditch liquids over 100ml at screenings.  

Hand luggage will then pass through the CT scanners, allowing airport security to inspect bags from a 3D image – a vast improvement on the 2D images that are currently used.

Aberdeen Airport Security Manager William Wallace said: “We are delighted to have the NGSC scanners operational at Aberdeen.

“We are well ahead of the deadline set by the Government thanks to all the hard work from our staff and contractors.

“This is one of the biggest changes in airport security so we would ask passengers to be prepared for this new process and to have patience as we enter the biggest change in aviation security in nearly two decades.”

In 2022, the Department of Transport implemented a deadline of June 2024 for airports to have the new scanners in place.

Birmingham International Airport, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool and Bradford are all expected to meet the June deadline.

East Midlands Airport is also set to finish installing the new scanners by June.

Earlier this month, the Government announced it has granted extensions to several large UK airports unable to meet its June 1 deadline.

Ministers have issued extensions of up to 12 months to several airports on a case by case basis, which is expected to be enough time for them all to complete the work.

The Department for Transport refused to provide a breakdown of the situation for each airport, citing security concerns.

However, London Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester airports are all understood to be among those who are due to miss the original deadline.

Airport Liquid Rule Explained

Originally introduced in 2006, the rules restrict holidaymakers to carrying just 100ml of liquids in their carry-on luggage, which must be stored in a sealed, clear, bag.

Mike Harvey, Managing Director of 1st Move International, advised people to make sure they’re familiar with the rules – especially when airports have different rules.

He said: “When planning your travels, it’s crucial to be aware that the 100ml liquid restriction might still be in place depending on the specific airport you depart from.

“Ensure that you check all departing airports on your itinerary, including domestic layovers.

“Until a universal removal of the 100ml liquid restriction is implemented across all airports, it’s best to adhere to the established protocols.

“Continue to pack liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 100ml or smaller and arrange them in a clear, resealable plastic bag, to mitigate the risk of disposal.”

Airports Mistakes

Taking too many liquids is one big mistake that people make at airports, but there are plenty of others, including wearing complicated pieces of clothing like belts.

Holidaymakers sometimes forget that belts need to be removed and scanned, which can cause delays at security.

Relying on screens for information is another mistake passengers often make, according to flight attendants.

Screens are often updated later than other places, so checking flight information online is much more reliable.

Meanwhile, a popular UK high street chain has started selling this popular hand luggage bag that fits Ryanair cabins.

And these are the rules around bringing food through airport security.

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