Birmingham Airport ‘ready with new security tech’ but cash allowance rule ‘needs final approval’

From June 1, subject to government approval, passengers will be able to carry up to two liters in hand luggage as the airport’s new security screening area opens.

The airport has been using its new security screening area since mid-March, but has faced a difficult transition period as it installs new equipment, a new security area and work on a new terminal continues.

Thousands of passengers faced long queues yesterday as they tried to escape the bank holiday, with one passenger describing the situation as “absolute carnage”.

In 2018, all UK airports were informed of new government legislation to introduce new security screening technology and the carriage of liquids in hand luggage.

Birmingham has taken over the building of the new security hall to accommodate 18 million passengers by 2033.

It has met the government’s June 1 deadline but is awaiting approval for the two-litre limit on liquids and gels – currently passengers can take up to 100ml.

Al Titterington, director of terminal operations at Birmingham Airport, said: We have invested £60m in our new security search area to ensure we are ready for the June 1 deadline.

“While the airport is ready with its new security technology, we await the final approval of the two liter liquid allowance.

“In the meantime, any customer traveling through the airport can take liquids, pastes and gels up to 100ml in bulk, and no longer in plastic bags, in their hand luggage.

“Furthermore, electrical appliances can remain in luggage and do not need to be removed through the security search area.

“Once regulatory approval has been granted for the two-litre allowance, we will inform our customers.”