The UK Airport 100ml Rule: What’s Changed

After nearly two decades, a long-standing part of UK airport security is changing. The 100ml liquid rule has been lifted at several major airports, so passengers can move through security faster. Travellers can also carry more in their hand luggage without the usual restrictions.

This update comes after a £1bn investment in new security technology. It arrives at the perfect time for travellers, just ahead of the February half-term and Easter holidays when airports are busiest.

In this blog, you’ll learn what you need to know about the new airport liquid restrictions and which airports have scrapped the 100ml limit. It also covers what to keep in mind before flying, so you can start your holiday stress-free.

Why Has The 100ml Airport Rule Changed?

The change comes with the rollout of new CT (computed tomography) scanners at UK airports. These advanced scanners create detailed 3D images of the contents of a passenger’s bag. This allows the airport security staff to assess liquids without needing travellers to take them out of the baggage.

These improvements are part of a wider update to UK airport liquid restrictions. The changes aim to make security checks more efficient while keeping safety standards high.

It not only streamlines security procedures but also gives travellers a smoother, less stressful experience. Passengers no longer need to juggle plastic bags or worry about disposing of essential toiletries.

What Are the New Airport Restrictions on Liquids?

Airports with fully operational CT scanners have introduced another key change to liquid restrictions. The previous 100ml limit has been replaced with a new allowance of containers up to two litres.

This means travellers can pack larger bottles of sun cream , shampoo, or other liquid toiletries in their cabin bags instead of placing them in checked luggage.

With these changes, airport luggage liquid restrictions are becoming more flexible, helping travellers pack more easily and with less stress.

Which UK Airports Have Scrapped The 100ml Rule?

Some travellers may wonder whether the 100ml rule is still in place. The answer is yes for some airports, but several of the UK’s busiest have already lifted the restriction. Heathrow has removed the 100ml liquid restriction for all terminals (T2, T3, T4 and T5), and the rule has also been lifted at Gatwick, Birmingham, Bristol and Edinburgh.

Not all airports have adopted the new rules yet, such as London City, Luton, Stansted, and Manchester. Although these airports have the new CT scanners in place, they still restrict liquids to containers of 100ml.

These updates are part of the ongoing UK airport liquid restrictions change, because the rollout is happening in phases. Travellers should check their departure airport’s rules to ensure a smooth journey.

Are There Any Exceptions to The New Rules?

Yes. Refillable metal or double-walled containers, such as vacuum flasks, must still be emptied before passing through security. The scanners cannot fully penetrate double-layer insulation. Once you have gone through security, you can refill these containers.

Oversized containers of certain materials may trigger additional checks, so it’s worth planning ahead when packing hand luggage.

What Does This Mean for Travellers?

The removal of the 100ml rule is a positive step, whether flying during peak or off-peak seasons. Security checks are now faster and more efficient, helping to reduce queues and make the process less stressful.

That said, travellers should still allow plenty of time to get to the airport on the day of travel. Unexpected delays can still happen, even with fewer liquid restrictions in place.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that the increased sensitivity of the scanners means some bags may still be selected for manual searches. Everyday items, such as certain food products or unusually shaped bottles, can trigger additional checks as part of standard security procedures.

Final Thoughts

This update marks a major improvement in airport security for UK travellers. With larger liquid containers allowed and being able to keep them in hand luggage, travellers can get through security with less hassle.

Travellers should check their departure airport’s rules before flying, as procedures may differ by terminal. For now, the change applies only to flights departing from UK airports, so passengers returning to the UK may still need to follow the 100ml rule.

And as always, arranging the right travel insurance for your needs gives peace of mind, letting you enjoy your trip knowing you’re protected.

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This article is for information and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute advice in any way. The information provided here is correct at the time of writing however please check the latest policy wording for the latest terms, conditions, and exclusions.