Some regional UK airports reintroduce 100ml liquid rule

Restrictions on carrying liquids over 100ml in hand luggage are making a comeback at some regional airports in the UK, causing a stir among passengers and airport officials alike.

The change, set to take effect from 00:01 BST on Sunday, June 9, 2024, will impact travelers passing through Newcastle, Leeds Bradford, London City, Aberdeen, Southend, and Teesside airports. These airports had previously done away with the 100ml liquid rules after implementing high-tech CT scanners as part of their Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC).

The Department for Transport clarified that this move is not in response to any specific threat but rather to allow for further enhancements to the new checkpoint systems. While the duration of this temporary measure remains uncertain, airports like Teesside and Newcastle are already taking steps to comply with the reinstated regulations.

Passengers are advised to pack all non-essential liquids in their checked baggage to minimize disruptions during security checks. Birmingham Airport, which had already upgraded to the new equipment, is still enforcing the 100ml rule due to pending regulatory approvals on its screening machines.

The government’s original deadline for all UK airports to transition to the new scanners was extended to June 1, 2024, with some smaller airports already meeting the requirements and eliminating the 100ml rule. However, extensions granted to certain airports could mean passengers will have to navigate these restrictions until June 2025.

The reintroduction of these liquid restrictions has raised concerns about potential confusion during the upcoming summer holiday season, as travelers adjust to the evolving security measures aimed at ensuring passenger safety.