Birmingham Airport has welcomed a significant relaxation of its security regulations, allowing travellers to carry up to two litres of liquids, pastes, and gels in their hand luggage. This marks a dramatic shift from the previous 100ml limit that had been in place for nearly 20 years.
The airport had initially planned to implement the two-litre allowance as part of an ambitious upgrade to its security hall. However, last-minute changes in government policy last year forced the airport to postpone these plans. In June 2024, Nick Barton, Birmingham Airport’s chief executive, described the sudden policy reversal as “painful,” noting it disrupted their efforts to modernize.
Despite these setbacks, recent improvements to the airport’s infrastructure and security processes now make it possible to enforce the new, more generous liquid rules. Passengers will no longer be required to remove their liquid containers from bags, and there is no cap on the number of two-litre containers they can carry. This upgrade is expected to significantly speed up the security screening process and reduce queues, which had become a major concern—especially during construction phases that limited terminal space last summer.
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In June 2025, Birmingham Airport recorded a record-breaking 1,360,957 passengers passing through its terminals, reflecting growing traveller confidence. The easing of liquid restrictions is also well-timed with the upcoming school summer holidays, promising greater convenience for families and other holidaymakers.
Al Titterington, Terminal Operations Director, highlighted the airport’s recent developments: “June has been another record month with more passengers choosing Birmingham Airport. Alongside the easing of liquid restrictions, we have reconfigured our immigration facilities and expanded airside shopping and dining. These investments enhance the customer experience as we head into a busy peak season.”
It is important to note that this new liquid allowance currently only applies to outbound flights departing from Birmingham Airport; passengers may still need to comply with the 100ml liquid rule on their return journeys, depending on the policies of the destination airport.
A spokesperson for Birmingham Airport reiterated the positive impact of the change: “Following a government rule change, passengers can now carry liquids, pastes, and gels up to two litres in their hand luggage without needing to remove them from bags. This, combined with our £60 million investment in new security equipment and infrastructure, will significantly improve processing times during peak travel periods.”
With this major rule update, Birmingham Airport is setting a new standard for passenger convenience and operational efficiency.