‘Don't bank on hand luggage rules changing this summer’ – Abta

Abta on Wednesday (10 April) said that owing to the "lack of consistency" across UK airports, it was advising agents and holidaymakers to prepare for the existing rules to apply such as by sticking to the 100ml liquid limit and removing electronic devices from hand luggage before arriving at airport security – whether the new rules are in place or not.

In addition, Abta is urging agents and travellers check the rules for destination airports, warning that even if people able to leave the UK under the new rules, their destination airport may not have the same technology in place.

Abta has launched a new advice page at abta.com/airportsecurity to offer clarity and advice. Last week, Advantage Travel Partnership chief Julia Lo Bue-Said said the delay risked "significant disruption" to the summer getaway if passengers don’t get "the necessary guidance" before they travel.

‘Clarity needed’

“What travellers need now, as we head towards the peak months for overseas travel, is clarity about what to do when going through airport security," said Abta’s director of public affairs, Luke Petherbridge.

"When fully implemented, the new airport scanners will make things faster and strengthen security. However, the recent extensions from the government show that there is still some way to go before the new security rules are consistently in place across UK airports.

"With that in mind, our best advice is to prepare for your travels with the existing rules in mind. That way, you’ll be ready to comply whatever the scenario, avoiding any unnecessary delays through security and any difficulties when returning from your destination. You can also check with your airport in advance – and we’d also recommend checking with your return airport too."