UK travellers are facing growing confusion this summer as the rules on carrying liquids in hand luggage now vary by airport, with some scrapping the 100ml limit while others still enforce it.
This inconsistency stems from the phased rollout of new 3D CT scanning technology at airport security checkpoints. These advanced scanners allow passengers to keep liquids and laptops in their bags, and carry up to 2 litres of liquids—but only at airports where the tech has been fully installed and approved.
🛫 Airports Where the 100ml Rule Has Been Lifted
As of July 2025, Edinburgh Airport and Birmingham Airport have officially lifted the 100ml liquid restriction. Passengers can now travel with up to 2 litres of liquids in hand luggage, without needing to remove them at security.
These airports have completed the upgrade to next-gen CT scanners, which give security staff a clearer 3D view of what’s inside bags. As a result, queues are shorter and security checks are more efficient.
🚫 Airports Still Enforcing the 100ml Rule
Many other airports—despite having CT scanners installed—have not yet received full regulatory approval to lift the restrictions. This includes:
- Aberdeen
- Leeds Bradford
- Newcastle
- Bristol
- Cardiff
- East Midlands
- Liverpool
- Teesside
- London City
- Luton
- Inverness
- Southend
These airports are still asking passengers to follow the 100ml rule and to take liquids and laptops out of their bags at security.
⚙️ What About Major Hubs Like Heathrow and Manchester?
Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted and Glasgow are still in the process of installing the new scanners across all lanes. While some terminals or lanes may already have them in use, travellers are being advised to follow the old rules for now—just to be safe.
🧳 Advice for Passengers (and Drivers)
For now, the safest advice is:
- Continue to pack liquids in containers no larger than 100ml
- Keep them in a transparent, resealable plastic bag
- Check your departure airport’s website before travelling
- Don’t assume return flights abroad will follow the same relaxed rules
This patchwork system is expected to continue until at least June 2025, when all UK airports are due to complete upgrades and receive full clearance.
Summary Table of UK Airport Liquid Rules (July 2025)
| Airport | Liquid Rule Status | CT Scanners Installed? |
|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh | 2L allowed | ✅ Yes |
| Birmingham | 2L allowed | ✅ Yes |
| Heathrow | 100ml limit | 🚧 Ongoing |
| Manchester | 100ml limit | 🚧 Ongoing |
| Liverpool | 100ml limit | ✅ Installed, not active |
| Newcastle | 100ml limit | ✅ Installed, not active |
| London City | 100ml limit | ✅ Installed, not active |
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