ABTA – The Travel Association is reminding half-term holidaymakers to stick to the current rules for liquids and laptops when preparing their hand luggage for airport security this week.

ABTA’s advice is intended to help avoid any potential delays and confusion at airport security this half-term caused by the delayed rollout of next generation security scanners.

The new scanners, when fully introduced, will end the 100ml liquid rule and allow electronic devices (laptops, tablets etc) to remain in hand luggage when going through security. However, many UK airports will not be fully up and running with the new scanners by 1 June 2024 – the Government’s original deadline.

Many overseas airports haven’t introduced the new technology yet either.

With this in mind, ABTA says the simplest approach for all holidaymakers travelling this half-term is to follow the existing rules around liquids and electronic devices. These are:

• Liquids can be no more than 100ml.
• Liquids must be taken out of your bag when going through security, and put in a single, transparent, resealable 20cm x 20cm plastic bag, with just one bag per person.
• Electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, are removed from hand luggage when you go through the security screening process.

ABTA is also advising travellers to look out for signage and guidance at the airport about the security rules in place.  

Further advice on airport security and the new scanners is available on ABTA’s website at abta.com/airportsecurity.