Heathrow finally scraps the 100ml rule as new scanners go live
Passengers flying out of Heathrow can now breeze through security without emptying their bags of toiletries or pulling out laptops, after the airport completed a major upgrade of its security screening.
The change follows a £1bn rollout of new CT scanners across all four Heathrow terminals. The technology creates detailed 3D images of cabin bags, allowing security staff to spot threats without passengers unpacking liquids or electronics. As a result, travellers can carry liquids in containers of up to two litres and keep laptops and tablets inside their hand luggage.
Heathrow says it is now the largest airport in the world to have fully deployed the scanners for all passengers. Other UK airports such as Gatwick, Birmingham, Bristol and Edinburgh have already introduced similar systems, though some airports are still operating with limits of 100ml while awaiting regulatory approval.
The end of the 100ml rule marks a long-delayed shift in airport security. Restrictions on liquids were first introduced in 2006 after a foiled terror plot involving liquid explosives. Successive governments promised the rules would be eased, but deadlines were pushed back due to the pandemic, supply chain issues and technical delays. At one point in 2024, airports that had already relaxed the rules were told to temporarily reinstate them, creating confusion for passengers.
Heathrow believes the upgrade will ease pressure at security during busy travel periods and cut down on delays caused by passengers repacking bags. The airport estimates the scanners will also eliminate the need for around 16 million single-use plastic bags each year.
Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye said: “Every Heathrow passenger can now leave their liquids and laptops in their bags at security as we become the largest airport in the world to roll out the latest security scanning technology. That means less time preparing for security and more time enjoying their journey – and millions fewer single-use plastic bags. This £1bn investment means our customers can be confident they will continue to have a great experience at Heathrow.”
The new rules apply only to flights departing from Heathrow. Passengers are being reminded to check the security requirements at other airports, especially when flying back to the UK, as different limits may still apply. Refillable metal or vacuum flasks must also be emptied before screening, though they can be refilled once through security.
