Airport security – latest update 2 November

Following a recent relaxation of security restrictions by the American authorities, passengers travelling to America from BAA’s airports, can now take liquids purchased after security on board flights.

Security restrictions do remain in at UK airports. All passengers will be subject to hand baggage restrictions and are asked to be patient while these additional security measures are in place. Passengers are asked to allow extra time for their journey and to arrive at the airport prepared.

Travelling from 6 November onwards?
The Government has adjusted the liquids, gels and aerosols hand baggage restrictions. Find out more

Travelling before 6 November?

Passengers are permitted to carry ONE item of hand baggage, no larger than the specified size, through the airport security search point. The dimensions* are as follows:

• 56 centimetres long (approximately 22 inches)
• 45 centimetres high (approximately 17.5 inches)
• 25 centimetres deep (approximately 9.85  inches).

* This is the maximum bag size allowed through security. Smaller bag sizes may apply depending on which airline you travel with. We therefore advise you to contact your airline or visit the specific airport website Stansted, Southampton, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Gatwick, Heathrow.

Please note: Other bags, such as handbags, may be carried WITHIN the single item of cabin baggage. All items carried by passengers will be x-ray screened. Cameras, (including digital, small electrical items such as mobile phones, MP3 players and gameboys can remain in the bag for screening. However, all laptops and large electrical items must be removed from the bag and placed in a separate tray. Pushchairs and walking aids are permitted but must be x-ray screened. Wheelchairs are permitted but must be thoroughly searched.

For further guidance on prohibited items, including what to do if travelling with baby milk and prescribed medicines, please see our useful link below:

• What you can and can't take in your hand baggage (171KB PDF).  

 download the free plug-in which you may need to view our PDF files.

Further passenger information 
Before security:  All shops and catering outlets are open to all passengers, but any liquids and gels purchased must be packed into your hold luggage for check-in. Any other purchases must fit into your ONE item of hand baggage.

Once through security: All shops and catering outlets are open to all passengers. If you are travelling to any destination, including the USA, then you can take ALL items purchased, including liquids, in the departures lounge into the aircraft cabin.

If you have any questions about what you can or cannot take please view our frequently asked questions or ask a member of staff at the airport.

Keep up-to-date: Please note that this information may change and any revised restructions will be posted here. However, if you want to keep up-to-date with the latest news, sign up to our email alerts.