Airport Security Update
| Published: 28th July 2007 10:55 |
Holidaymakers heading to the airport this summer are reminded to 'arrive prepared' so that they can pass efficiently through airport security without having to leave items like perfumes and hand cream behind at the security search point.
Tight controls on the amount of liquids that passengers can take through the security checks have been in place at airports across Europe since an alleged plot was uncovered last year involving liquid explosives.
With airports at their busiest - last August alone saw almost 10 million passengers travelling from UK airports - passengers are being urged to make sure they know the requirements before leaving home, particularly if they haven't flown since last summer. There are two main things to bear in mind:
* All passengers can take just one item of cabin baggage each through the security point with a maximum size of 56 x 45 x 26cm, including wheels, handles and external pockets. But do check with your airline which might have more restrictive bag sizes in place.
* Passengers can only carry liquids in containers of up to 100ml, each of which must fit comfortably within one small, clear, re-sealable plastic bag no larger than 20cm x 20cm. On average that's room for around five items. This includes items such as creams, lotions, gels, sprays, toothpastes and make up.
The only exemptions are essential medicines which require supporting documentation from a relevant qualified medical professional and liquid baby food including milk or sterilised water necessary for the journey, which the accompanying adult will be required to verify by tasting.
Containers larger than 100ml such as drinks bottles (including water), even though they might only contain 100ml, are NOT permitted. However liquids of any size can still be checked into the hold, so passengers are advised to put anything not deemed essential for the flight inside their main suitcase.
Aviation Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said:
"We want everyone to enjoy their holidays and a smooth getaway from the airport is a great start. By arriving at the airport prepared for the security checks, passengers can avoid the delays and frustrations of those who do not.
"These restrictions are necessary to ensure that flights are safe and secure and the restrictions on liquids are in place at every airport across Europe as well as in countries such as the US and Australia.
"All we are asking is that passengers bring just one piece of cabin baggage each to the airport - within the size limits allowed - and carry any necessary liquids in the clear bag as required. We don't want passengers to have to leave items behind and being ready like this can save time and hassle at the security search point."
Passengers may take on board additional items, including liquids of any size, purchased in the departure lounge as all such items have been through a separate screening process.
These are the requirements set down by the Department for Transport but remember that airlines and airports may have additional measures in place. Passengers with any queries are strongly advised to contact their airline or departure airport directly by phone or through the operator's website.
