Big changes are now in effect for air travelers in the UK. As of May 2025, several major airports have officially scrapped the long-standing 100ml liquid rule. This is part of a broader UK airport security update aimed at speeding up security queues and improving the overall travel experience. With advanced CT scanning technology now in place, passengers are no longer restricted to tiny toiletry bottles at select locations.
Why the Airport 100ml Liquids Rule Was Introduced – And Why It’s Ending
The 100ml liquid restriction was introduced across global airports in 2006, following a foiled terror plot involving liquid explosives. For nearly two decades, travelers had to squeeze all their liquids into a single plastic bag, often causing delays and confusion. Now, technology is catching up. New 3D scanners, similar to those used in hospitals, provide detailed images of bags, making it easier for staff to detect threats without the need for manual bag checks. The result: a safer and faster security screening process.
List of UK Airports That Have Scrapped the 100ml Liquid Rule
Below is a table showing which UK airports have dropped the 100ml rule as of May 2025:
Airport Name |
3D Scanner Deployment |
100ml Rule Status |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
London City Airport |
Fully operational |
Scrapped |
First UK airport to remove limit |
Birmingham Airport |
Fully operational |
Scrapped |
Fast-track lanes also upgraded |
Teesside Airport |
Fully operational |
Scrapped |
Security time reduced significantly |
Newcastle Airport |
Fully operational |
Scrapped |
Weekend travel flow improved |
Aberdeen Airport |
Fully operational |
Scrapped |
CT scanners now at all lanes |
London Heathrow |
Partial rollout |
Still in place |
Full deployment expected by Q3 |
Manchester Airport |
Partial rollout |
Still in place |
Phase two under way |
What This Means for Travelers in 2025
If you’re flying from one of the updated airports, you no longer need to limit your liquids to 100ml or place them in a separate plastic bag. However, it’s essential to check your departure and return airports. Many international destinations still follow traditional liquids at airport rules, so you might face restrictions on the other end of your journey. Additionally, airports still transitioning to the new system—like Heathrow and Manchester—will continue enforcing the old rules until installation is complete.
This travel new rules shift marks a significant improvement in the UK’s aviation infrastructure. Families, business travelers, and frequent fliers will benefit from reduced wait times and less hassle at security checkpoints. However, passengers are advised to stay updated through official airport websites to avoid confusion.
Future of Airport Security in the UK
By the end of 2025, all major UK airports are expected to adopt CT scanning technology, making the 100ml liquid limit a thing of the past. The Department for Transport has mandated this transition to streamline airport operations and align with global security standards. As more airports update their systems, air travel across the UK will become more efficient and less stressful.
The end of the 100ml rule is just the beginning. Future improvements may include faster boarding through biometric screening, AI-assisted luggage sorting, and digital travel documentation. For now, the scrapping of the 100ml limit is a welcome change for millions of travelers.
Conclusion
The airport 100ml liquids rule scrapped policy is a game-changer for UK air travel. With five airports already fully compliant and more joining in later this year, passengers can look forward to quicker, smoother security checks. But until the rollout is complete across all airports, travelers should double-check the rules for their specific flight. These changes represent a leap forward in how we experience air travel in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
Which UK airports have fully removed the 100ml liquids rule?
London City, Birmingham, Teesside, Newcastle, and Aberdeen have completely lifted the rule after installing new CT scanning technology.
Do I still need to use a clear plastic bag at these airports?
No, if you’re departing from an airport that has scrapped the rule, you can carry liquids over 100ml and do not need to separate them.
Are the new travel rules applied for all flights?
Only flights departing from airports with updated scanners. If your destination still enforces the 100ml rule, you may be required to comply on the return trip.
Will Heathrow and Manchester lift the rule soon?
Yes, both airports are in the process of installing the required scanners and are expected to complete the rollout by late 2025.
Can I carry full-size toiletries now?
Yes, at airports where the rule is scrapped, you can carry full-sized bottles of shampoo, lotions, and other liquids in your hand luggage.
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