Heathrow Airport passengers no longer need to remove liquids or electronic devices from hand luggage during security checks, following the completion of a £1 billion upgrade to screening technology.
Heathrow has become the largest airport in the world to fully roll out next-generation CT security scanners, allowing passengers to keep liquids and laptops in their bags and removing the need for clear plastic liquid bags at security checkpoints. The hand luggage liquid limit at the airport has been lifted from 100ml to 2 litres.
Gatwick, Birmingham and Edinburgh airports already have the advanced screening technology in place and allow the higher liquid limit. Other UK airports have also rolled out the new technology, but currently maintain the 100ml liquid rule.
The scanners provide more detailed imaging of cabin baggage, enabling faster and more efficient screening. Heathrow said the new technology will improve processing times and reduce congestion during peak travel periods, including the upcoming February half-term and Easter holidays.
Heathrow estimates the change will eliminate the use of nearly 16 million single-use plastic bags each year, as passengers are no longer required to separate liquids at security.
The upgrade is part of Heathrow’s long-term investment programme aimed at improving passenger experience and preparing the airport for future growth.
Chief Executive Thomas Woldbye said: “Every Heathrow passenger can now leave their liquids and laptops in their bags at security as we become the largest airport in the world to roll out the latest security scanning technology.
“That means less time preparing for security and more time enjoying their journey – and millions fewer single-use plastic bags. This billion-pound investment means our customers can be confident they will continue to have a great experience at Heathrow.”
