Security

There are currently rigourous security rules for passenger at all United Kingdom airports. The following information may be useful:

Checking In

Passengers should allow plenty of time for checking in. For most passengers, particularly those using Heathrow Airport Car Parking, checking in can sometimes take  longer than expected. Always check road traffic conditions before you setr out.

Passengers should allow the following:
·    International flights - check in 2 hours prior to departure
·    European flights - check in 2 hours prior to departure
·    Domestic flights - check in 1 hour prior to departure

Baggage

Rules for cabin baggage are now much stricter than before. One item of hand baggage is allowed, with a maximum size of 56 centimetres long, by 45 centimetres high, and 25 centimetres deep. These dimentions include handles, side pockets and handles. Baggage with dimentions which exceed the above must be taken a hold baggage. Laptops are allowed as the one item of luggage, as are larger electrical items, but these will be security checked. Other items, such as pushcahirs, wheelchairs,walking aids and musical instruments are allowed, but will be security screened.

Liquid Items

There  are restrictions on the quantities of liquids that may be carried through security as hand baggage. This includes such items as bottled drinks, fragrencies, hand lotion, toiletries and sun tan lotion. Liquids, creams,pastes, aerosols are subject to the following restrictions:

    * Liquid items must be in containers, and must not exceed 100 ml
    * All such items must be carried in a transparent plastic bag
    * The bag must be no bigger than 8 inches by 8 inches, and must close properly.
    * The bag must be placed separately on the conveyor belt for screening
    * Any liquid items larger than 100 ml must be placed in the hold baggage.

There are exceptions for baby food and milk, but passengers may be asked to taste the items.

A passenger with medical needs for larger quantities of liquid than 100ml should bring a letter from their doctor.
Prohibited Items

    * Sharp or pointed items may not be carried
    * Such items include razor blades,knives,cutlery,tools, hiking poles,hypodermic needles, catapults,corkscrews, toy or replica guns,sporting bats, cues or darts.
    * Scissors with rounded blades, and scissors which are not longer than 3cm ( one and a half inches) are permitted
    * Lighters, christmas crackers, party poppers,and non-safety matches may not be carried.
    * Passengers may carry a single lighter on their person
    * Large, golfing type umbrellas are not permitted. Folding or collapsible umbrellas that can be fitted into hand baggage are allowed.

Passengers may take items purchased from duty free or other shops after security. Do not open the packages until you reach your destination.


Other Prohibited Items

In addition to the restrictions on hand baggage, there are various other items that may not be carried, either in hand baggage or hold baggage:

    * Gas cylinders
    * Wet Car cell batteries
    * Fireworks
    * Paint and thinners
    * Radioactive materials
    * Acids, caustic soda,alkalis,and corrosives
    * Infectious substances
    * Organic peroxides
    * Magnetrons
    * Instruments containing magnets
    * Flammable liquids and solids
    * Creosote,quicklime,oiled paper
    * Poisons, arsenic,cyanide,weedkiller
    * Non-safety matches,fire lighters,lighter fuel
    * Magnetrons

Passengers should also be prepared to remove their shoes.

Further Information

For more detailed information on security matters, passengers should refer to the official United Kingdom Government Guide.