Airport security measures remain in place

By David Browne
LONDON (eTN) — Enhanced security measures at British airports which have caused increased the time taken for passenger processing look set to continue indefinitely. The restrictions were introduced last month after security and intelligence officers foiled an alleged plot to blow up airliners flying from the United Kingdom to the USA. But following lobbying from the travel industry and passenger representative bodies, there has been a small concession on carry-on baggage restrictions.

The maximum size of a bag that can be taken into the cabin of aircraft has been increased to 56 cm (22 inches) long by 45 cm (17.5 inches) high by 25 cm (10 inches) deep. This is in line with IATA standards for cabin baggage. This is the maximum size of bag allowed through security, but the airport operator BAA said some airlines may impose their own smaller limits.
Smaller bags such as handbags (purses) may be carried into the aircraft cabin so long as they fit inside the single item of cabin baggage. Cameras, mobile phones, small electrical items such as MP3 players and hand-held game consoles can remain in the bag for security screening, but laptop computers and large electrical items such as hair dryers, must be removed from the bag and placed in a separate tray for inspection.
This easing of restrictions is not a return to normal and BAA warns that security checks will continue to delay passengers at British airports, and the company is advising travelers to allow extra time and to arrive at the airport prepared for long lines through security. All passengers will be subject to hand baggage restrictions and are being asked to be patient while the additional security measures are in place.
Following lobbying by the Musicians Union, the British Government has eased the restrictions on carrying musical instruments on board airliners. Musical instruments which do not fit in the permitted maximum sized cabin baggage are allowed as a second item but must be screened before boarding. Large instruments, such as cellos and double basses are now permitted into the cabin but passengers need to check with their airline if special arrangements need to be made, such as purchasing an extra seat for the space taken up by a large musical instrument.
There is no relaxation on the ban on liquids introduced last month. No liquids are permitted through airport security search points except prescribed medicines in sufficient quantity essential for the flight, and baby milk and liquid baby food, which the responsible passenger must taste in front of a security guard.
Toothpaste, hair gel, drinks, soup, perfume, deodorant, shaving foam, hand cleansing gel and other liquid or gel products continue to be banned from hand baggage and must be placed in bags checked in for loading in the aircraft hold. Cigarette lighters containing liquid fuel continue to be banned but matches are allowed in hand baggage.
Passengers are being advised that to help progress through airport search points they should avoid carrying items capable of containing liquids, such as bottles, flasks, tubes, cans and plastic containers.
Passengers boarding flights to the USA at airports in Great Britain are likely to face additional searches at the boarding gate. Any liquids discovered will be removed from the passenger. This means travelers heading for the USA will not be allowed to take on board duty-free drinks purchased in the departure area after passing through security checks.

Nor will they be allowed to carry on board unfinished coffee or other drinks purchased at snack bars in the departure lounge, but solid food items are allowed.

September 26, 2006   Posted in: Airlines & Railways