As per recent news from the UK, the rules around security clearance of big electrical items and liquids will change.
All the UK’s major airports will start adopting new rules by 2024 for taking liquids and large electrical items through security checks using this new technology.
Within the next 2 years, UK’s major airports will introduce innovative security systems across checkpoints. This will pave the way for a new era of passenger experience and advanced security for travellers during departure.
This will enhance passenger convenience and save them time by cutting down the need for opening their bags and taking out the items. Moreover, it will also improve the safety of passengers and their luggage. The security staff getting a better idea of what passengers are carrying will aid this.
The government launched a new legislation rule, simplifying the streamlining of procedures to be implemented at UK airports in the future.
This will allow taking benefit of the new-age developments such as screening technology developments. As a result, security standards (that are already high) will further improve in the UK.
Mark Harper, Transport Secretary, said, “The tiny toiletry has become a staple of airport security checkpoints, but that’s all set to change. I’m streamlining cabin bag rules at airports while enhancing security. By 2024, major airports across the UK will have the latest security tech installed, reducing queuing times, improving the passenger experience, and most importantly detecting potential threats.”
Currently, passengers must remove laptops, tablets, and other electrical gadgets during a security check at departure. However, there’s a 100ml limit on carrying liquids and those should be in a clear bag. The new rule will eventually lift this requirement while the 100 ml liquid limit will be increased to 2 litres.
Till the time airports don’t upgrade processes and equipment for screening, the same rules will apply unless told or a notice is issued. And passengers should check the rules for the airport they are planning to use before the journey to know the applicable rules.
Moreover, passengers should also check other specific rules for taking liquids and electrical gadgets at any airport. This is essential for passengers going through transfers during their travel as not all airports may have the new technology.
AOA’s (Airport Operators Association), Christopher Snelling, said, “This investment in next-generation security by the UK’s airport operators will provide a great step forward for UK air travel, matching the best in class around the world. It will make the journey through the UK’s airports easier and air travel itself more pleasant.”
The new deadline comes after several trials carried out at several airports since 2018. Those trials have demonstrated that the new screening equipment (CT X-ray technology) is effective at providing a 3D image of the content of passengers’ bags. It also shows the effectiveness of highly advanced threat detection algorithms. Across the globe, this technology may spread fast as airports like Schiphol and others in the US are using this technology.
Keeping the convenience of passengers in mind, the new rules could further enhance the airport’s ability to detect forbidden items. In 2006, the present-day rules were introduced due to some terrorist threats. These rules were designed to keep a check on hostile intent and passengers carrying liquid explosives on aircraft.