All major UK airports to introduce 3D baggage screening
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All major UK airports must introduce 3D baggage screening equipment before the end of 2022, the government says.
Announcing the new plans, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the scanners would cut down on “hassle” for travellers and improve security.
British officials say the technology will boost security, speed up pre-boarding checks, and could end the restrictions on travelling with liquids and laptops.
Several airports around the world, such as Amsterdam Schiphol and Chicago O’Hare, already use the technology.
The equipment, like CT scanners used in hospitals, is already being installed at London’s Heathrow Airport. The government will now force all other UK airports to change their systems by December 2022.
It provides a clearer picture of a bag’s contents, which staff can zoom in to and rotate for inspection.
This means air passengers will no longer have to take liquids and laptops out of their carry-on bags under the new rules.
British officials are advising travellers to continue to separate liquids and electronics for now as the new technology will not be introduced straight away.
Airport bosses estimate the scanners will mean passengers clearing security 50 to 60 times faster than is currently the case.
