U.K. Airports Set to Ditch 100ml Restrictions: Carry 2L of Liquids on Planes

The UK is introducing new security scanners to increase flight liquid limit to a maximum of 2L (67.6 fl oz).

According to The Mirror and various international news sources, the UK government has disclosed plans to implement 3D security scanners at all airports nationwide. This move is expected to bring about a relaxation of regulations concerning in-flight liquids.

These state-of-the-art 3D security scanners feature computer tomography (CT) technology, akin to the technology employed in hospitals for medical imaging. Utilizing computer tomography, these advanced scanners can scrutinize passengers’ bags and liquids with unprecedented precision, surpassing the capabilities of previous scanning methods.

Thanks to the enhanced scanning capabilities, passengers passing through UK airports can now carry up to 2 liters (67.6 fluid ounces) of liquids onboard. This marks a substantial relaxation compared to the previous in-flight liquid limit of 100 mL (3.4 fluid ounces). Additionally, it is anticipated that there will no longer be a requirement to remove all liquids from bags during immigration checks.

London’s City Airport and Teesside Airport, located in the northern part of the UK, have already deployed 3D security scanners and are implementing these more lenient regulations. The UK government has announced its commitment to a phased installation of 3D security scanners at all airports in the country, with completion slated for June 2024.

The imposition of the 100ml (3.4 fluid ounces) liquid limit for carry-on items during flights was initiated in the aftermath of a terrorist incident that occurred in 2006. This incident involved an attempted plane attack using a liquid bomb concealed as a beverage, prompting airlines worldwide to implement strict liquid restrictions uniformly.

While certain airports have introduced similar scanning technology to facilitate security measures, the United Kingdom has pioneered the liquid limit nationwide. This move represents a noteworthy shift in aviation security regulations and marks the UK as the first to implement such a widespread relaxation of liquid restrictions.

By. Se Yoon Jeong