London airport becomes UK first to scrap 100ml liquid in hand luggage rule in time for Easter holidays - when will Gatwick Airport introduce the technology?

Until now, holidaymakers have been limited to taking just a small amount of liquid-based items, including make-up, mini-shampoos and showers gels through security and in their hand luggage.

But thanks to new high-tech security systems, London City Airport will now allow travellers to take up to two litres of liquid on board. The new CT x-ray scanners will work similarly to those used in hospitals.

The new cameras will take images of hand luggage, producing a high-resolution 3D image showing the contents of the bag. Security will then be able to view it from every angle – current security scanners only produce a 2D image.

The new tech also means passengers won’t have to remove their electronics such as laptops and kindles to get through security either. It is hoped the new process will speed up security queues through busy periods like the Easter period.

It is thought the new scanners will be rolled out at major UK airports in the coming months, but London City will be the first.

When will Gatwick Airport introduce the new rules?

A Gatwick Airport spokesperson said: “We are currently trialling this new technology and will meet the government’s deadline of June 2024 to implement it across the airport.

 “In the meantime, passengers should continue to follow all existing rules, ensuring they do not carry any liquids, gels, pastes, or creams of more than 100ml in their hand luggage. Any items below 100ml need to be placed in a

transparent, resealable bag to be screened through security, while laptops, tablets, coats, watches and belts also need to be removed and placed in a separate tray.

“By being prepared, we hope to get passengers through airport security quickly, so they can go on and relax ahead of their flight, enjoy a drink or sit down for a meal.”

You can see more Gatwick news here.