Heathrow Airport has made a major update to rules affecting every passenger. More than 84 million people use the London airport every year, making it the busiest hub in Europe.

It announced it has completed the roll-out of its new high-tech scanners which means major changes to what can be taken through security in hand luggage. The new equipment now allows electronics such as laptops to be left in luggage while clear plastic bags for liquids no longer have to be used.
But a new key change is that liquids no longer have to be no more than 100 ml without clear plastic bags being used. Passengers can now carry up to 2 litres of liquids in their luggage.

Heathrow is the latest airport to make the change following the introduction of the high-tech scanners. Gatwick, Edinburgh and Birmingham airports have already upgraded and rolled out the 2-litre limit.

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Passengers using most UK airports will still have to follow the rule which means they can keep liquid containers of up to 100ml in their luggage, without having to remove them and use clear plastic bags. Bristol and Belfast airports have also raised their liquid limits to two litres.

Heathrow Airport explains the change on its website saying: "Liquids in containers up to two litres can remain in cabin bags and be taken through security in all terminals (T2, T3, T4 and T5). Remember refillable metal or double walled containers must be emptied but these can be refilled once through security."

It adds that the following liquids are allowed in the aircraft cabin:

• Baby food or baby milk: breast milk can be carried in the cabin; when it is stored in a clear, transparent container or commercially available storage bag. Metal or double walled containers are not permitted.
• The volume of each container / bag should not exceed 2 litres. Breast milk should be in a liquid format and not frozen. When travelling without an infant, breast milk can be carried in quantities up to 2 litres. This does not apply to formula milk or other baby juice / food. Please check with your airline as individual cabin / hand baggage allowance can vary.
• You may also wish to take advantage of our Reserve & Collect Service for collection by calling us on 0800 678 5324 or online via www.heathrow.com/shopping (Or feel free to use direct page link - Baby Milk - Airport Shopping | Heathrow Reserve & Collect)
• Liquid medicines: You are only permitted to carry quantities of liquid medication in excess of the 2 litre limit where it is needed during the course of your flight. All medication should be accompanied by documentary proof of authenticity, such as a prescription or letter from a medical practitioner confirming that you need them for your journey. Liquid medication that is not required on the flight should be carried as hold luggage. Find out more about travelling with medicines.

However the rule remains that explosive or flammable liquids, and those that are considered toxic, are not permitted in either hand or hold luggage.