London airport becomes first in UK to get rid of 100ml liquid rule
When heading through the airport there's all sorts of rules which you need to follow, and one which people always seem to get annoyed by is the rule that if you want to bring liquids onto the plane they can't be larger than 100ml.
The rule was first introduced back in 2006 after a terrorism plot involving liquid explosives was foiled, and while that's a pretty good reason to put a rule in place, it has been the bane of many travellers' journeys.
However, the rule is on the way out with the introduction of new technology in airport security as airports have been set a deadline of June 2024 to install CT scanners which provide greater detail on what people have in their bags.
The scanners also mean restrictions on bringing in certain electronic devices such as laptops in your hand luggage can also be relaxed.
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The newer and more high-tech scanners have been trialled in a number of airports across the UK, but London City Airport looks set to be the first to win the race in making the changes for all passengers.
New scanners should have completely replaced the old ones by the end of the month, meaning they'll kick in before the Easter school holidays, with the rest of the UK following in London City Airport's wake.
Under the new rules, the liquid container allowance is getting bumped up from a measly 100ml to a mighty two litres.
On top of that travellers won't need to pack their selection of creams, cosmetics and whatnot into a separate clear plastic bag.
Airport bosses are hoping the move will also ensure that waiting times are cut down, with London City Airport chief Robert Sinclair saying passengers will be glad of the changes.
He said: "The new lanes will not only cut hassle but also queuing times, which I know passengers will love."
Transport secretary Mark Harper said the move would do away with the 'tiny toiletry' faff around airports and result in 'streamlining cabin bag rules at airports while enhancing security'.
The tech upgrade provided by CT scanners is significant, as the old machines only provided a 2D image of a person's luggage, while the upgrades create a highly detailed 3D resolution of your bags which airport staff can check from any angle.
City Airport was able to get over the finish line first because they already had two of the machines installed and a third will be in place by the end of March.
Even if the liquid limit has now jumped up to two litres, you probably shouldn't celebrate by bringing one of those giant bottles of cola on board in your hand luggage.
Joe Harker