UK Airports Review: New Security and Luggage Regulations for Travelers

As the peak summer travel season of 2025 approaches, UK airports anticipate handling over 1.7 million passengers across more than 9,000 flights. This anticipated surge comes on the heels of significant changes in security protocols, luggage allowances, and border regulations aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. Authorities assert that these modifications are essential to ensure smoother travel for holidaymakers amidst the post-COVID recovery.

The landscape of air travel is undergoing a substantial transformation, with the UK government and airport officials implementing a series of reviews concerning security measures and passenger allowances. According to Heidi Alexander, the UK Transport Secretary, "Travelers should prepare for existing liquid limits, as the standard 100ml rule remains in place unless specifically stated otherwise by their airport." This statement reflects the ongoing challenges of balancing safety with convenience. Despite advancements such as state-of-the-art scanners at various airports, only a select few, namely Edinburgh and Birmingham, have relaxed the liquid restrictions to allow larger containers through security.

Historically, the 100ml limit on liquids in hand luggage was introduced in 2006 following a thwarted terrorism plot. Since then, it has been a fixture of air travel regulations. However, changes in technology have led some airports to upgrade their security lanes, allowing passengers to retain laptops and other electronic devices in their carry-ons. At London Gatwick, for instance, all security lanes are equipped with these new scanners, yet the liquid restrictions remain in effect.

Another contentious aspect of air travel is the size of cabin luggage. The differentiation between 'large' and 'personal' cabin bags has seen some standardization, with new EU regulations requiring a minimum size for personal items. The Airlines for Europe association has indicated that its members will comply with these rules by the end of the summer season. However, any misjudgment in bag size can result in hefty fees, with Ryanair charging up to £60 for oversized items.

The European Parliament is currently deliberating on a proposal to allow an additional piece of free hand luggage weighing up to 7kg, a move that has received criticism from airlines. EasyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis labeled the proposal impractical, citing limited cabin space for luggage.

On the border control front, UK travelers continue to face longer queues at European airports. While an agreement allows UK passport holders to use e-gates in some EU countries, many still find themselves at staffed posts waiting for their passports to be stamped. The European Entry-Exit System, set to be implemented in October, will introduce biometric checks for travelers, adding another layer of complexity to the travel experience. In addition, UK citizens will soon require a visa waiver, costing €7, to enter the EU, a new hurdle following the UK's exit from the EU.

The airlines claim to have learned from the operational disruptions experienced during previous summers, with increased recruitment and the integration of AI to enhance resilience. However, the looming issue of air traffic control delays remains a concern due to staffing shortages and airspace congestion, particularly in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting flight paths.

To assist passengers during delays, airlines like British Airways have adopted technology-based solutions to streamline the compensation process, while EasyJet has introduced customer experience specialists at major hubs to provide additional support.

As the summer travel season unfolds, both airlines and airports express cautious optimism about navigating the complexities of air travel in a post-pandemic world. These regulatory changes aim to provide a more efficient and pleasant experience for travelers, though the implementation and effectiveness of these measures remain to be seen.