New Airport Security Measures

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Important news for travellers

The Department for Transport has today announced a further relaxation in the security restrictions at UK Airports. The new measures will take effect from the start of business on Friday 22 September 2006.

The revised security measures allow for:

• an increase in the size of the hand baggage permitted onboard
• musical instruments to be taken onboard

In addition, Glasgow Airport will now be allowing passengers to take solid cosmetics, such as lipstick, in hand luggage.

The size of the hand baggage permitted onboard must not exceed the following dimensions:

• 45 centimetres long (approximately 17.5 inches)
• 56 centimetres high (approximately 22 inches)
• 25 centimetres deep (approximately 9.85 inches)

This easing of restrictions is not a return to normal. It remains the case that liquids, gels or pastes, toiletries and sharp items are forbidden from hand luggage. The only exceptions involve essential medicines in liquid form sufficient for the flight (eg.diabetic kit) and baby milk and liquid baby food sufficient and essential for the flight (the contents of each bottle or jar must be tasted by the accompanying passenger). Further details available at the BAA website.

Delays are likely while these additional security measures are in place. Passengers are asked to allow extra time for their journey and to arrive at the airport prepared.

In addition, the enhanced security measures for passengers travelling to the USA also remain in place. This will see passengers subjected to secondary security searches at the gate. No toiletries or cosmetics purchased in the departure lounge will be allowed into the aircraft cabin and any drinks or liquid items must be consumed before boarding. Food, however, is allowed. Passengers boarding flights to the USA and items they are carrying, including those acquired after the central screening point, will be subjected to secondary search at the gate and any liquids discovered will be removed.

For further guidance on prohibited items, please visit the Glasgow Airport website.

Press Release: Thursday 21 September 2006