Full-sized liquids can now be brought through security at this airport
The restriction on travel-sized liquids in carry-on luggage has been formally repealed at the first major airport in the United Kingdom.
Liquids up to two liters (approximately 67 ounces) in size are now permitted through security at London City Airport without the need for passengers to transfer them to separate clear plastic bags.
Due to the introduction of new scanners at the security checkpoints that use computed tomography (CT) imaging technology, the screening procedures are being eased to some extent. Advanced scanners are capable of capturing a more accurate 3D image of what’s inside a bag or suitcase. With the emergence of these modern scanners, passengers are also spared the hassle of taking out bulky electronics like laptops.
By June 2024, the liquid limit is scheduled to be lifted across the board at all airports in the United Kingdom, which will require the installation of the upgraded CT scanners. Teesside in Northern England, a smaller international airport in the region, was the first to end the liquid restrictions in March, and London City was the second in the UK to follow suit.
Prior to this change, passengers could only bring onboard bottles that held 100 milliliters (3.4 ounces) or less of liquid, and all contents needed to fit into a quart-sized bag. Similar regulations established by the TSA are still in force at U.S. airports.
According to the Condé Nast Traveler, the TSA maintains it has no imminent plans to let full-sized liquids in carry-on baggage, even though the same sort of improved scanners have been in operation at more than 100 airports around the U.S.
“While we have [CT scanners] deployed at more checkpoints, we are years away from announcing a change to the current liquids rule,” Robert Carter Langston, TSA’s press secretary, said in a statement back in December.
In general, passengers flying through airports in the United States that are equipped with CT scanners are not forced to take their carry-on liquids, devices, or food out of their bags before going through security screening. This makes the passenger experience significantly more relaxed and expedient.
The regulations governing travel-sized liquids do, of course, have some exceptions in the United States. Some medically essential liquids, such as prescription creams and gels, liquid medicine, breast milk and infant formula, toddler drinks, hand sanitizer, and more, can be brought in full-sized bottles in carry-on luggage by travelers.
When passing through security with full-sized medical liquids, passengers should inform the TSA agent. While usually these things are permitted through, the TSA officer has the final say and is authorized to turn away passengers in certain circumstances.
Evie Blanco is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience who was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Queens, New York. She is extremely well-versed in hip-hop music and culture and is always aware of any developments within it. Whether it’s the latest in pop culture, a fascinating foreign destination, a truly amazing new restaurant, or breaking news, she loves to write about it all.