Some UK airports
are to be given more time to install security technology that
could spell an end to tiny toiletries, with serious financial
penalties planned for those who fail to meet the new deadlines.
First announced in 2018, the new scanners detect prohibited items
with greater accuracy, meaning security staff can work more
efficiently and passengers no longer need to take items out of
their hand luggage – making the process simpler and saving time
during security screening. Once in place travellers will also be
able to take greater quantities of liquids through security,
meaning an end to 100ml limits.
The extensions to the June 2024 deadline are being granted to
those airports required to install the new kit,
meaning passengers should still check
the security requirements for liquids and large electronic
items at their departure airport before travelling this
summer. Extensions have been granted for up to a year and it is
the responsibility of airports to install this cutting-edge
technology.
Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, said:
These cutting-edge scanners will make air travel safer and easier
for passengers by strengthening security even further.
The UK is leading
the world with its roll-out of this technology, but it's
important we give those airports yet to meet the deadline a
second chance to get the job done. Until they do, passengers
should continue to check before travelling.
The government is also looking to introduce financial penalties
for those airports that miss any further deadlines. Powers to
achieve this under the Aviation Security Act will be explored and
taken forward in the coming months.
Even with these extensions, the UK remains at the forefront of the
installation of the next generation technology, with no other
European country matching the scope and scale of the rollout
at UK airports.
Due to issues such as the global supply chain's continued
recovery from the pandemic, some airports have been unable to
upgrade their security checkpoints before the 1 June 2024
deadline announced at the end of 2022. Extensions have been given
on a case-by-case basis.
We recognise that installing the new security equipment at busy
airports has been a logistical challenge, with some airports
having to undertake significant construction work to allow the
new, extremely heavy equipment to be fitted. In some cases,
airports have been required to construct entirely new screening
halls.
Chief Executive of the Airport Operators Association, the trade
body for UK airports, Karen Dee, said:
Airports are making excellent progress in delivering these
multimillion-pound investment programmes, which will ensure
the UK remains at
the forefront of aviation security in the years ahead.
As with any programme of this complexity, there are significant
challenges, and we are happy the government has recognised these
and agreed to extend timeframes for delivery where necessary.
By adopting this approach, airports can ensure that they are
ready to welcome passengers over the upcoming holiday periods and
that their journeys are safe, secure and smooth as we make this
transition.
Tim Alderslade, CEO of
Airlines UK, said:
Delivering these changes throughout all UK airports will be key to improving
airline passengers' experience. The extension of the deadline for
those airports who require it will ensure simplicity and ease for
customers during this transition.
