Evolving Airport Security and the Lifting the 100ml Liquid Ban

We are excited to share some recent updates in airport security protocols regarding the volume of liquids passengers are allowed to carry in their hand luggage. Advancements in technology have paved the way for more efficient and streamlined security procedures, leading to better airport experiences for passengers worldwide.

In 2006, the notorious ban on liquids over 100ml in volume was first implemented across airports in the UK. This measure came into effect following an attempted terrorist attack, known as the 2006 transatlantic aircraft plot, where explosives were disguised as soft drinks in 500ml bottles. As a result, passengers were subject to strict limitations on the amount of liquids, gels, and aerosols they could bring onto an aircraft in their hand luggage.

Over the last few years, we have witnessed an innovative moment in aviation security. Thanks to advancements in aviation technology, particularly the introduction of new CT (Computed Tomography) scanners in airport security checkpoints, the industry is en route to making significant strides forward.

These new CT scanners can produce 3D images of carry-on luggage, allowing security staff to identify any potential threats or explosive liquids more accurately and efficiently. Consequently, airports that have installed these advanced scanners, and trained their staff accordingly, are beginning to lift the liquid ban, marking a milestone in airport security.

So, what does this mean for passengers? Travellers will soon be able to bring larger quantities of liquids through security in airports. Instead of adhering to 100ml for each container, all of which must be stored in a small transparent, re-sealable plastic bag, they will now be permitted to carry up to two litres of liquid, aerosols or gels per container in their hand luggage.

The implementation of CT scanners also brings another advantage – passengers will no longer be required to remove liquids or electronics from their hand luggage while going through security screening. The introduction of this innovative technology will streamline the security process and make the journey smoother and more unproblematic for travellers.

However, it’s essential to note that despite the advancements, the rollout of CT scanners and the subsequent lifting of the liquid ban are still in progress across the UK. The nationwide target for all UK airports to install the necessary equipment and sufficiently train their staff was June 2024, yet as of the publication date of this blog, only a handful of airports have lifted the liquids ban so far.

London City airport, Newcastle International airport, and Teesside International airport are among the early airports having lifted the ban after successfully installing the new CT scanners. However, other major UK airports such as Heathrow, London Gatwick, and Manchester have been granted an extended deadline to install CT scanners, with a target date set for 2025. Birmingham airport is set to be the first major UK airport to lift the ban, with a proposed date of 1 June 2024.

The aviation industry is ever-changing and is entering a new era of security thanks to advancements in technology that will enhance passenger safety and experience. As airports continue to invest in innovative solutions like CT scanners, travellers can look forward to stress-free journeys and better experiences at the UK’s security checkpoints.

As CT scanners efficiently detect threats in hand luggage, this allows more time for airport staff to focus on other critical security checks. However, CT scanners rely on the robust training of security staff, ensuring they can operate the technology accurately and interpret its results. To maximise the potential benefits this new technology has to offer, it is vital for airports to invest in the training and development of security personnel.

At Optime, we take pride in sourcing highly-compatible and well-trained staff for airports. We are committed to the innovation and future of the aviation industry, one where passenger safety remains paramount.