Did Heathrow Airport Just End the 100ml Liquid Limit for Good?

London Heathrow Airport (LHR) has officially ended the long-standing 100ml liquid container limit for departing passengers. This major change follows the full rollout of advanced CT security scanners across all terminals.

Passengers can now carry liquids in containers up to two liters in their hand luggage. This eliminates the need for the small, clear plastic bags.

The New Heathrow Security Experience

Heathrow is now the largest airport globally to fully deploy this next-generation technology. The £1 billion investment allows security staff to view a 3D image of bag contents. This significantly streamlines the security process for travelers.

Key Passenger Changes at LHR

• Liquids: Containers up to two liters are permitted inside hand luggage.
• Electronics: Laptops and tablets can remain in the bag.
• Exemptions: Medicines and baby food remain exempt from the new two-liter limit.
• Note: Refillable metal or double-walled containers must still be emptied for screening.

Heathrow estimates this new rule will save nearly 16 million plastic bags annually. The airport expects thousands of passengers per hour to pass through security faster. Heathrow Chief Executive Thomas Woldbye noted the change means "less time preparing for security and more time enjoying their journey."

UK Airport Liquid Rules: A Patchwork System

The rule change applies only to flights departing from London Heathrow security. Passengers must check the rules at their destination or transfer airports. Many international airports still enforce the 100ml limit.

Several other UK airport liquid rules have also been relaxed. Airports that have fully lifted the 100ml limit to two liters include:

• Birmingham (BHX)
• Bristol (BRS)
• London Gatwick (LGW)
• Edinburgh (EDI)
• Belfast International (BFS) and Belfast City (BHD)

However, some airports, like London City, Luton, and Teesside, have installed the new scanners but must still enforce the 100ml limit. This is pending final regulatory approval from the Department for Transport (DfT).

Regulatory Context and Delays

The original UK government deadline for major airports to install the new scanners was December 2022. This deadline was later extended to June 2024 due to pandemic-related disruptions. Supply chain issues and a temporary DfT order to reinstate the 100ml rule in mid-2024 caused further delays. The new technology is part of a national effort to enhance security while improving the passenger experience.

flying.flights is your source for accurate commercial aviation news and global aviation updates.