The government is said to be considering plans to implement 3D scanning technology – similar to CT scanners used in hospitals – to provide a clearer picture of a bag’s contents.
According to The Times, ministers have been carrying out a review on the new scheme and an announcement is due before Christmas.
The potential move comes in a bid to alleviate congestion during the security process in UK airports.
Current rules – which have been in place since November 2006 – restrict passengers to 100ml of liquid per bottle, with each container being able to fit in a single, clear plastic bag.
However, the proposed new technology will allow staff to inspect the contents of a bag by zooming in and rotating the picture. The scanners were previously trialled at Heathrow in 2017.
The airport’s chief executive, John Holland-Kaye, told The Times: "We have just started the expansion of the security area in Terminal 3 which will have more CT scanners and have a deadline of mid-2024."
