Warning about changes to UK travel rules in June

Travel experts are warning travelers to check with individual airports and airlines before assuming the rules set to take effect in June have been enforced or risk delays and disruptions to travel plans. It comes after TikToker @katiuzcac, who posts travel tips and hacks, posted a video showing an airport security lounge with newly installed high-tech scanners.

It reads “Finally, you don’t have to take liquids out of your bag, same with electronics. TIME SAVING!” The video has gained over 470,000 views, with 276 comments from delighted travellers. However, before ditching the clear plastic bag, a travel expert cautioned that you should check with each airline and airport, as not all facilities will have the new scanners.

Craig Cowan, head of travel at Newcastle College, said: “It can be easy to get confused about what liquids you can safely bring on board. The best thing to do is to check with the individual airline and airport facilities.

“Many airlines have committed to installing high-tech scanners by June 2024, which would have meant the removal of liquid restrictions. Newcastle Airport, which is featured in the video, is one of those that have installed them. However, some of these facilities are delayed and may not be in place for your trip.

“It’s worth checking before you travel to avoid queuing up and throwing away expensive cosmetics.”

The new CT scanners work by using advanced X-ray technology to create 3D images of your carry-on, while performing advanced threat detection algorithms. The government said the scanners would mean “security staff can work more efficiently and passengers no longer have to remove items from their hand luggage – simplifying the process and saving time during security screening”.

Newcastle A now have the scanners. Teesside Airport was the first regional airport to complete the upgrade. London City Airport is the first of the UK’s major airports to install the scanners and claims it has already seen its queues reduced as a result.

Which airports do not have the new scanners?

Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester admitted to the BBC that they would not meet the June deadline.

ABTA, a trade association for the travel industry, echoed what Craig had to say in a statement. It wrote: “While UK airports work to introduce new scanners and security checks, many will not be fully operational until the summer. ABTA advises travelers to continue to comply with existing hand luggage rules regarding liquids and removing electronic devices. Travelers can also check in advance with their airport to see what rules will be in place.”

It’s better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you still have your clear plastic bag and 100ml limits when you travel in the coming months.