UK Airport Introduces New Liquid Rules: No More Plastic Bags for Hand Luggage

UK’s Bournemouth Airport has announced significant changes to its hand luggage rules, effective immediately, thanks to the installation of new scanning technology. The changes are designed to enhance security and streamline the passenger experience.

No More Removing Liquids and Electronics

Passengers travelling through the UK’s Bournemouth Airport no longer need to remove liquids or large electronic devices like laptops from their hand luggage during security screening. This update is a major convenience for travellers, reducing the hassle often associated with airport security checks.

Liquids No Longer Need to Be in Clear Plastic Bags

In addition to the change for electronic devices, passengers no longer need to place their liquids in clear resealable plastic bags. However, the restriction on liquid quantities remains in place, meaning all liquids must still be in containers no larger than 100ml.

Also Read: New EU Hand Luggage Rules Come Into Effect from September 1

Statement from Bournemouth Airport

In a statement on its website, the airport confirmed:

“Bournemouth Airport has completed the process of installing and testing new security screening equipment to improve passenger security. For hand luggage, this means that passengers can now leave liquids and large electrical items in their cabin baggage.”

The airport also advised travellers to check the rules at other airports, as many have not yet introduced this new technology. Passengers could still face restrictions at other locations, including the need to place liquids in clear plastic bags.

Nationwide Liquid Rule Changes

The introduction of next-generation security scanners is part of a UK-wide government initiative aimed at improving airport security. These new scanners allow passengers to carry liquids of up to two litres in hand luggage.

However, major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester missed the June 1, 2023 deadline for installing the new equipment, citing logistical challenges.

Despite this, several smaller airports, including London City, Newcastle, and Teesside, managed to meet the deadline and lifted the old liquid restrictions.

However, in June, the Department for Transport (DfT) reinstated the previous liquid rules for these airports, affecting only around 6% of UK passengers.

A government spokesperson explained: “This temporary measure is to allow for further improvements to the new checkpoint systems. It will only impact a small number of passengers flying from airports where next-generation security checkpoints were already operational.”

EU Updates Hand Luggage Rules

In related news, the European Union has recently announced changes to hand luggage regulations across several of its member states. These updates will impact liquid allowances, as the EU continues to adopt new security screening technologies similar to those in the UK.

Travellers flying within the EU should check individual airport guidelines, as new rules could vary depending on the airport’s adoption of next-generation scanners. Passengers are advised to stay informed to avoid confusion and potential delays at airport security.

Conclusion

The introduction of new security technology at Bournemouth Airport has significantly improved the passenger experience. By allowing liquids and larger items in hand luggage, the airport has streamlined the security process and reduced inconvenience for travellers.