Passengers to benefit from biggest shake up of Airport security rules in decades

THE rules around taking liquids and large electrical items through Airport security are set to change by 2024 with the installation of new technology at major Airports across the UK.

Over the next 2 years, most major Airports will introduce cutting edge systems into their security checkpoints, ushering in a new era of improved security and passenger experience when going through departures.

Not only will it mean greater convenience for travellers; as people will no longer need to spend time taking items out of their bags; but it will also enhance passenger safety, as security staff will have more detailed images of what people are carrying.

The Government is laying new legislation which will make it easier to streamline the processes that apply to UK Airports in the future. By allowing us to take advantage of the latest advancements, such as developments in screening technology, it will help us to further improve the already high security standards in the UK.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:- "The tiny toiletry has become a staple of Airport security checkpoints, but that's all set to change. I'm streamlining cabin bag rules at Airports while enhancing security. By 2024, major Airports across the UK will have the latest security tech installed, reducing queuing times, improving the passenger experience, and most importantly detecting potential threats. Of course, this won't happen straight away; this is going to take two years to be fully implemented. Until then, passengers must continue following the existing rules and check before travelling."

Passengers are currently required to remove tablets, laptops and liquids from their cabin baggage, while liquids have been limited to 100ml and must be in a clear plastic bag. This requirement will eventually be lifted, and the 100ml liquid container limit will be extended to 2 litres.

Airports now have until June 2024 to upgrade their screening equipment and processes. Until then, passengers must follow the same rules as now until further notice or unless told otherwise. Crucially, they should check with their specific Airport before travelling to see which rules are in place.

They should also check the rules for carrying liquids at any Airport through which they may transfer during their journey and at their return Airport, as many destinations may not have implemented this new technology.

Christopher Snelling, Policy Director at The Airport Operators Association (AOA), said:- "This investment in next generation security by the UK's Airport operators will provide a great step forward for UK air travel, matching the best in class around the world. It will make the journey through the UK's Airports easier and air travel itself more pleasant."

The new deadline follows several trials conducted at some Airports since 2018, which have demonstrated the effectiveness of this new screening equipment; which uses CT X-ray technology to essentially provide a 3D image of what's in passengers' bags, as well as deploying highly advanced threat detection algorithms. Similar technology is taking place in many countries globally, with Airports such as Schiphol and in the US now also making use of the technology.

It will further enhance our Airports' ability to detect prohibited items but with greater convenience for passengers. The current liquids rules, which were introduced in 2006 following a terrorist threat, have been designed to stop those with hostile intent carrying liquid explosives on to planes.

The North West's 'Forever Home' More Unattainable than Ever

A new study amongst homeowners has revealed that North West residents' ideal:- 'forever home' is a detached, 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom property worth £532,000.

The research found that, whilst North West residents' expectations for their 'forever home' have become more ambitious in recent years, with prospective buyers wishing for an additional 2 rooms in their future home, they now expect their dream home to cost £111,000 (26%) more than this time 5 years ago.

This, coupled with the ongoing cost of living crisis, means 65% of those in the Region are concerned that rising costs could impact their ability to ever afford their 'forever home.'

Despite this, the research, which was conducted by Origin, the UK's leading provider of doors and windows, demonstrates that, as a nation, we are more determined to own our ideal property than ever before. In fact, 47% of Brits are actively saving for their forever home, compared to just 33% in 2017. To help achieve this, many are working longer hours, taking fewer holidays, and going out less.

The study also shows how recent events, including the ongoing cost of living crisis, have impacted our priorities for our properties. For example, whilst Brits still want their future homes to include modern features like bi-folding doors and large windows, buyers are now prioritising good energy efficiency over other luxuries, such as a bath, a shed, or a summerhouse.

In addition, the Pandemic has led to a significant change in perspective buyers' demands. 80% of Brits think that outside space is more important in a home now than it was pre-Pandemic, whilst 72% claim that natural light at home is more vital than ever. Plenty of indoor space and stylish interiors are also increasingly important to Brits, suggesting that the way we use and view our homes has evolved.

Ben Brocklesby, Director at Origin, said:- "We've been tracking homeowner trends for 20 years. However, the last 5 years have seen the most rapid and significant change in the way people view and use their homes for decades. Our research demonstrates that, despite the challenges face prospective buyers, our homes are more important to us than ever before. So much so that Brits are willing to work longer hours and sacrifice family holidays to achieve their dream home. The research also shows that Brits are increasingly recognising the impact their environment has their overall health. As a result, they are prioritising homes with features that promote wellbeing, such as natural light."

North West's Ideal Forever Home:-

Overview:-

Worth £532,000.
Detached
Based in a Town with seaside views

Rooms:-

4 bedrooms
Walk-in wardrobe
2 bathrooms, including one ensuite
2 reception rooms
A children's playroom
Kitchen
Dining room
Utility room
Pantry/larder
Study
Conservatory

Additional features:-

Bi-folding doors
Large windows with plenty of natural light
Garden with patio
Private driveway and garage
Good energy efficiency
Plenty of storage

Research conducted by Observant on behalf of Origin amongst 1,500 UK homeowners, in September 2022.