UK to Loosen Airport Security Restrictions

By Henry Tyler
21 September 2006 @ 09:16 am EDT

Today, Department of Transport announced changes to airport security restrictions.

The changes will come into effect on Friday. Although some restrictions have been lessened, the carrying of liquids onto aircraft will still be prohibited.

Passengers will now be permitted one item of cabin baggage no bigger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, an increase from the previous limit of 45cm x 35cm x 16cm. In addition to this musical instruments will also be allowed to be taken in flight by the passenger.

Britain said that it would relax hand luggage restrictions, in place at airports since August 10 following an alleged terror plot, but would maintain a ban on liquids onboard aircraft.

In an official statement, the Department of Transport said, “Following meetings with the industry and consultation with international partners, we can now introduce further changes to the current regime which will lessen the burden on passengers, while maintaining a rigorous security regime,” reports Reuters.

The increased security measures were introduced following an alleged terror plot on 10th August.

According to BAA, owners of Heathrow, Gatwick and Stanstead airports, the extra security measures cost them an extra £13million.