In a significant development for air travel, Heathrow Airport has officially abolished the long-standing 100ml liquid container limit for passengers passing through security. This change, effective from January 2026, marks a major shift in airport procedures designed to streamline the passenger experience.
What Does the New Rule Mean for Travellers?
Passengers departing from all Heathrow terminals – including T2, T3, T4, and T5 – can now keep liquids in containers of up to two litres inside their hand luggage during security screening. This eliminates the need to remove these items from bags, a process that has historically caused delays and frustration.
Additionally, electronics such as laptops and tablets can remain in bags, further simplifying the security process. Heathrow estimates that these adjustments will allow thousands more passengers per hour to pass through security with significantly greater efficiency.
Important Exceptions and Considerations
While the new rule is broadly applicable, there are specific exceptions. Refillable metal or double-walled containers must still be emptied before security checks and refilled afterwards. Medicines and baby food remain exempt from any restrictions, as per standard aviation protocols.
It is crucial for travellers to note that not all UK or international airports have adopted this relaxed limit. Passengers should verify the rules at their destination or connecting airports to avoid complications on return journeys.
Technological Advancements Driving Change
The removal of the liquid limit is made possible by the introduction of advanced CT scanners at Heathrow. These scanners, part of a £1 billion investment programme, provide high-resolution images that allow security personnel to inspect luggage contents without requiring passengers to remove liquids and electronics.
Heathrow is currently the only airport among the world's top ten busiest travel hubs to implement this more relaxed limit, positioning it as a leader in passenger convenience.
Environmental and Operational Benefits
The airport projects that the new rule will save approximately 16 million plastic bags annually, as travellers no longer need to use single-use bags to comply with liquid restrictions. This aligns with broader environmental goals within the aviation sector.
Status of Other UK Airports
Several other UK airports have also updated their liquid policies, though with variations:
- Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Gatwick, and Belfast airports have lifted the 100ml limit, allowing up to two litres.
- London City, Luton, and Teesside airports have installed new scanners but currently retain the 100ml container limit, requiring liquids to stay in bags.
The rollout of new scanners across UK airports has faced delays, initially planned for completion by December 2022. Postponements, partly due to the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on travel, led to a revised deadline of June 2024. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander previously advised passengers to assume the 100ml rule still applied, highlighting the phased nature of these changes.
This policy shift at Heathrow represents a forward step in enhancing travel efficiency and reducing environmental waste, setting a new standard for airport security procedures globally.
