airports

A survey conducted by consumer group Which? placed Manchester’s Terminal 3 at the bottom of the list for the fourth consecutive year, with a customer satisfaction score of just 43%

Travellers have delivered their verdict on the UK’s airports – and Manchester has been branded the worst to fly from.

A survey conducted by consumer group Which? placed Manchester’s Terminal 3 at the bottom of the list for the fourth consecutive year, with a customer satisfaction score of just 43%. The terminal received a dismal one-star rating out of a possible five for measures such as security queues, seating, and the pricing in shops and food outlets.

One frustrated Terminal 3 passenger fumed: “It’s impossible to get a drink or something to eat, but much worse than that – there is nowhere to sit.” Manchester’s other two terminals didn’t fare much better in the survey. Terminal 1, which is set to close later this year, was ranked second-worst.

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Another traveller said: “The cleanliness in Terminal 1 is appalling. Toilets are often overflowing, and there’s rubbish everywhere.”

Terminal 2 at Manchester could only muster fourth from bottom, with a customer satisfaction score of 53%, although there was at least some positive feedback. One traveller commended its “good facilities prior to long-haul flight and helpful staff at baggage check-in”.

At the other end of the scale, Exeter Airport topped the list with an overall customer satisfaction score of 80%.

However, Exeter serves around 500,000 passengers annually, compared to 29 million at Manchester or 84 million at Heathrow.

Close behind, with a score of 78%, was Liverpool John Lennon Airport, which now caters to five million passengers each year. Passengers lauded its swift, efficient process and friendly staff.

You can search for your closest airport and check the ratings using our interactive gadget.

Chris Woodroofe, Manchester Airport’s managing director, has hit back at the Which? survey and criticism the airport has received. He said: “Through our historic £1.3 billion transformation programme, we have created a world-class and award-winning Terminal 2. We have also announced plans to invest significantly in Terminal 3 – starting this year.

“I am also proud to say customer satisfaction has increased significantly over the past four years. We know how customers feel about their experience because we asked hundreds of them every week about it. Between January and June this year, 91% of 3,045 people surveyed told us their experience was good, very good, or excellent.

“That is how I know this latest outdated and unrepresentative report from Which? bears no resemblance to the experience people receive at Manchester Airport day in, day out.”

A Gatwick spokesperson added: “In the first half of 2025, passengers received great service, as the airport significantly improved its on-time performance, following excellent collaboration with airline partners and National Air Traffic Services.”

A statement from Heathrow read: “Which? has relied on unrepresentatively small sample sizes and recollections to assess an industry that already collects vast amounts of data on a daily basis, all verified and published by an independent regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority.”

While London Luton Airport’s spokesperson said: “Whilst we value all feedback, a sample size of just 255 Which? readers is simply not representative of the 16.7 million passengers who travelled with us in 2024.”

London Stansted’s spokesperson said it was “proud to have welcomed a record-breaking 30m passengers to the airport in the last year, driven by the great value and reliable service on offer, and convenient access to over 200 destinations across Europe and beyond.”

The new advanced CT scanners combine computer image processing with X-rays, which is a huge improvement for speeding up security waiting times.

UK holidaymakers are being urged to double-check the specific rules at each airport they travel through due to differing security policies.

Those jetting out of the UK, whether for a sun-soaked holiday, family visit, sports tournament, business trip, or studying abroad, should note that not all airports have yet installed CT scanners at security checks.

These scanners mean passengers no longer need to take liquids and electronics out of their luggage. Previously, liquids were restricted to 100ml and had to be placed in a clear plastic bag, while electrical items had to be removed and scanned separately.

However, not all airports have implemented the new systems, so the old rules still apply in many places.

The state-of-the-art CT scanners combine computer image processing with X-rays, significantly speeding up security waiting times. This also means travellers should be able to fly with bottles and containers holding up to two litres of liquid, with no limit on the number of bottles they can carry, reports Birmingham Live.

However, holidaymakers shouldn’t disregard the old rules just yet. There’s still a fair bit of confusion about which airports have the scanners fully operational and which do not, as internet searches on the issue have more than doubled.

Experts at One Sure Insurance have warned: “With some airports such as London City Airport having installed CT scanners in April 2023, others such as London’s Heathrow are not expected to make a full switchover soon, due to the cost of the new technology – expected to be around £1 billion – and the retraining of staff that’s required.

“It’s important to remember when returning from your trip that you still need to follow the rules from your departing airport, including liquid, electronic and customs restrictions and protocols.

“Otherwise, you may face delays and/or losing expensive belongings in the bin. You might leave from an airport where two litres are fine, but return from one that still enforces the 100ml rule. Not all airports are ready, and that could cause problems.

“There’s a big risk of confusion right now, but technology has the power to change the way we fly. Until airports around the world catch up with newer technology, travellers should stay proactive to avoid being left behind.”

This means checking airport websites, packing liquids in hand luggage, keeping essential items to 100ml if in any doubt, leaving enough time at airports to potentially separate liquids and electronics, and being especially mindful when returning to different airports or during multi-city holidays.

As we approach the peak of the summer holiday season, millions of UK passengers are expected to pass through airports, some of which will still be operating under the old rules.

So, which airports have these new security scanners in place?

Edinburgh and Birmingham airports have fully rolled out new CT scanners at security. This means you can keep liquids of up to two litres inside your cabin bag, and there’s no limit on how many two-litre bottles or containers you can take through.

Only liquids, pastes, and gels in containers no larger than 2 litres (2L) can be carried in hand luggage – anything larger needs to be in checked luggage.

When going through security, ensure all items are out of your pockets, including phones, keys, coins, tissues, etc. Watches can be left on.

Bristol Airport has fully embraced the new rules, stating that electrical items can remain in hand luggage along with liquids, which can now be up to two litres per container.

While most other UK airports are still operating under the old rules on liquids and electricals, more are expected to introduce CT scanners throughout this summer.

Gatwick Airport has announced that passengers no longer need to remove liquids and gels from their hand luggage, although the containers must still be limited to 100ml. However, electrical items do need to be removed and screened separately.

Luton Airport has stated that all liquid containers in your hand luggage must be under 100ml/100g each, including creams, pastes, lotions, and gels. Passengers can keep their liquids inside their bags for security screening, as a plastic bag is no longer required.

Electronics can also be kept in baggage.

Stansted Airport is still adhering to the old rules, advising passengers that they can pack liquids in their hand luggage, but containers must be under 100ml each and in a clear, resealable plastic bag. This bag should be removed from hand luggage and placed clearly in the tray provided, along with any electrical item above A5 size (20cm x 20cm).

Manchester Airport has also confirmed that the old rules are still in place. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be under 100ml each and packed in a clear, resealable plastic bag no larger than 20cm x 20cm.

Manchester passengers are limited to packing one clear bag of products in their hand luggage, with the stipulation being one per person. These should be removed from hand luggage and placed in the tray for scanning.

Additionally, any electrical item larger than A5 (20cm x 20cm) should also be removed from your bag and placed in the tray.

Heathrow, Stansted and Manchester airports are gradually introducing new CT scanners lane by lane, meaning some passengers may be asked to remove liquids and electronics while others won’t.

It’s worth bearing in mind that you may not be able to leave liquids or electrical items in your bag on your return journey. According to consumer website Which, at most airports in France, Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain – as well as the US – you will need to remove liquids from your hand luggage and put them in a clear plastic bag.

Valencia, Alicante, Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Ibiza, Palma, Girona, Tenerife South, Lanzarote and Santiago airports are due to be impacted by workers downing tools over the coming weeks

Brits heading for Spain are facing more travel chaos as 3,000 striking workers target 12 airports.

Valencia, Alicante, Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Ibiza, Palma, Girona, Tenerife South, Lanzarote and Santiago airports are due to be impacted by workers downing tools over the coming weeks, which are among the busiest travel weeks of the year.

The strikes involve more than 3,000 Azul Handling baggage handlers and are due to kick off on August 15, 16, and 17, and then every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until the end of the year. By law, the workers have to provide a “minimum service” yet to be determined, but the action could still have a major impact on travellers.

Azul Handling provides baggage handling services to Ryanair at its Spanish bases. The strikes have been announced after hospitality workers on 12 Spanish islands revealed their own walk-out plans.

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The industry action will coincide with the long bank holiday weekend at the end of August and the days before most children return to school, potentially spelling major headaches for UK holidaymakers. Around 18 million Brits head to Spain each year, with the bulk of those trips coming during the school holidays.

The strike will affect all bases and work centres in Spain and will take place between 5am and 9am, noon and 3pm and 9pm to 11.59pm. The union has said its decision to strike is based on what it sees as a lack of stable job creation and consolidation of working hours for permanent part-time staff, as well as a disagreement with bosses over bonuses.

It has also claimed there are issues with how workers are sanctioned and what it sees as an “abuse of overtime”. The strike is motivated by sanctions imposed on workers who refuse to work non-mandatory hours, with penalties of up to 36 days without employment or pay.

“UGT regrets having to go to these extremes and all the damages that may occur, for which the direct responsibility will be solely and exclusively the company and its reckless action with the workforce,” the unions said in a statement.

Jose Manuel Perez Grande, federal secretary of the FeSMC-UGT Air Union, claimed Azul Handling maintains “a strategy of precariousness and pressure on the workforce that violates basic labour rights and systematically ignores union demands.”

The FeSMC-UGT Air Sector demands that the company withdraw the sanctions, comply with the opinions of the Joint Commission and immediately open a real negotiation process, which will improve the working conditions of the more than 3,000 workers affected throughout the national territory.

A Ryanair spokesperson said: “Ryanair does not expect any disruption to our operation as a result of these third-party handling strikes in Spain.”

Passengers who are not on their best behaviour could face jail time or a fine, according to a campaign led by the country’s biggest airports

Brits jetting off have been warned to be on their best behaviour or their summer holidays could “ruined” this year, officials have warned. A nationwide campaign going around the UK’s airports is encouraging holidaymakers to “fly responsibly” or risk “paying the price”.

With experts predicting this summer to be one of the busiest ever for air travel, the One Too Many campaign is cautioning travellers that having too much alcohol before flying out could result in serious consequences. Promotional material even warned Brits they face jail time if they flout any rules.

Travellers who cause disruption on flights may find themselves denied boarding, hit with a lifetime band or fines of up to £80,000 should their conduct force an aircraft to change course mid-journey. “One too many is all it takes to ruin a holiday, cause a delay, land YOU in jail, cancel a flight, [and/or] divert a plane,” one of the campaign’s warnings said.

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The One Too Many campaign resources have been deployed across more than 20 UK airports including London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle and Bristol, reports the Liverpool Echo. The campaign said on its website: “The industry is committed to tackling disruptive behaviour through a voluntary Code of Practice.

“Signatories to the Code work together to prevent and minimise the number of disruptive passenger incidents, and promote a zero-tolerance approach to disruptive behaviour; the identification, pre-emption, management and reporting of disruptive incidents; the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol; and education and communication with passengers.”

Karen Dee, the chief executive of the Airport Operators Association, said: “UK airports are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers. We urge travellers to enjoy their journeys responsibly and not ruin their holidays or the holidays of others. Airports will continue to monitor and act against any disruptive behaviour to ensure everyone’s safety.”

The One Too Many campaign was first launched in 2018, with support from the Government and includes endorsements from the Department for Transport and the Home Office. The campaign came just days after police in the north launched their own campaign to curb boozy Brits who came back from their holidays.

Officers stopped drivers leaving Teesside Airport as part of ‘Operation Take Off’, which targeted passengers who had flown into the airport and had struggled to control their boozing during their flights.

Only one person out of the more than 100 checked was found to have alcohol in their breath. The amount found was below the legal limit, according to police, who gave the person a warning after they admitted to having one glass of wine on board.

Earlier this year, Ryanair called for airports to limit passengers to having no more than two drinks before they board, claiming it would lead to “a safer travel experience for passengers and crews”.

At the time, a spokesperson for Ryanair criticised governments across Europe for what it saw as their “repeated failure to take action when disruptive passengers threaten aircraft safety and force them to divert”. They added: “It is time that European Union authorities take action to limit the sale of alcohol at airports.”

With plans to expand even further, Heathrow Airport has proposed an expansion, but it will be at the cost of the passengers as ticket prices are set to rise to cover the cost

Heathrow Airport has announced plans for a huge expansion – at the cost of their passengers. Heathrow’s latest business plan suggests that the airport is to take on a further £8bn of debt, leaving their passengers to pay for terminal upgrades in a bid to accommodate an additional 10 million passengers annually by 2031, contingent on an increase in airline fees.

The proposed 10 million passenger increase represents a 12 per cent rise on current numbers, and to do this the airport is exploring the option to raise the average charge per passenger from the current £28.46 to £33.26.

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Heathrow is Europe’s busiest airport, and has been under plans from the government for a long-term vision of a new runway – which isn’t anticipated to be operational until 2035 at the earliest. So this new proposal offers a quicker route and was submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Friday, detailing upgrades to existing terminals as a means to boost capacity.

Now the CAA is set to review the plans, but it comes after the airport is currently under fire for already being too expensive. Heathrow has reportedly been facing claims from airlines for being one of the world’s most expensive, and have urged the regulator to reduce the charges already

IAG, the parent group of Virgin Atlantic and British Airways, the Heathrow Airline Operators’ Committee (AOC) and the Arora hotel group have joined together in a coordinated attack on the airport’s regulatory regime.

They hope to “conduct an urgent and fundamental review into the way in which Heathrow, the UK’s only hub airport and the largest in Europe, is regulated, for the benefit of consumers, businesses and the UK economy,” as reported by the Independent.

“Heathrow has become the world’s most expensive airport, with passengers and airlines today paying £1.1bn more each year than if charges were in line with equivalent major European airports,” the partners said in a statement. However, Heathrow argue that this investment will make expansion more affordable and less disruptive.

Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye said in a letter to the Transport Select Committee: “One factor is that the airport’s small physical footprint means a lot of our infrastructure has to be underground or built in a unique way, increasing the cost.

“We are also the busiest two-runway airport in the world, meaning the intensity of our operating environment is comparatively more complex and makes it much harder to make targeted improvements and investment while remaining operational.”

Paul McGuinness (Chair, No 3rd Runway Coalition) said: “The astonishing detail in Heathrow’s Five Year Plan is that only £2bn is of its £10bn cost will be funded by shareholder equity; so adding a further £8bn of debt to Heathrow’s current £20bn of arrears.”

He continued: “Heathrow’s business plans shows their determination to grow irrespective of whether or not expansion takes place. The fact that 80% of this investment will be financed through debt reveals a continuation of a strategy to sweat their assets to their limit which brings with it associated risks and higher costs which will no doubt be passed onto passengers.”

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It was announced this week that Edinburgh and Birmingham airports have installed new scanners that allow bottles of up to two litres to be taken on board planes

Holidaymakers have been urged to plan ahead and do their research before travelling abroad to avoid being caught out by hand luggage rules.

The Transport Secretary has told air passengers to assume the 100ml limit on liquids in hand luggage remains in place, after two airports changed their policies.

It was announced this week that Edinburgh and Birmingham airports have installed new scanners that allow bottles of up to two litres to be taken on board planes. However, other airports around the UK are at different stages of putting the technology in place, meaning the old rules still apply.

Heidi Alexander said: “You should work on the basis that it is 100ml at the moment unless you have heard from your airport otherwise.”

Mirror Travel has contacted the UK’s major airports to ask whether they have the new scanners in place and to get their latest advice for passengers.

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Gatwick

For the moment, passengers should come prepared for security at London Gatwick as normal and not bring liquids in containers of more than 100ml, the airport’s spokesperson said.

Heathrow

The vast majority of passengers are already using the new security lanes at the UK’s biggest airport, which is working with the DfT to complete the rollout.

However, as the rollout is not complete, passengers have been urged to prepare for security as normal, with liquids in containers up to 100ml.

Birmingham

A Birmingham Airport spokesperson said: “Birmingham Airport now allows passengers to travel with up to 2 litres of liquids, following a change in rules made by the Government. Passengers can now carry liquid, paste and gel bottles up to 2L each in their hand luggage, without the need to take them out of their bags.

“This change will enable faster and more efficient processing of hand luggage, following the £60m investment in equipment and infrastructure made last year. We are pleased passengers can now benefit from this change in ruling, made by the Government in time for the summer peak.”

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Bristol

“The limit at Bristol Airport is still 100ml and will be until the DfT advises us otherwise,” a spokesperson told the Mirror.

Manchester, Stansted and East Midlands

The Manchester Airport Group, which runs Manchester, Stansted and East Midlands airports, has the new scanners up and running.

A MAG spokesperson said: “New security technology is already in use across all three of MAG’s airports, and the majority of passengers are screened with the new equipment.

“In accordance with Department for Transport guidance, passengers should continue to arrive at the airport prepared and travel with liquids in containers no larger than 100ml in their hand baggage, unless advised otherwise.”

Liverpool John Lennon

“Here at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, passengers have been able to leave all liquids and large electrical items such as laptops and tablets in their hand luggage for a few months now, following the installation of the new security screening equipment. However, the 100ml liquid size limit currently remains,” the airport’s spokesperson said.

“We will move to higher liquid quantities when approved to do so, at which time we’ll communicate this to passengers.”

Edinburgh

“This week we announced that passengers can now keep liquids in their bags when going through security, and those liquid containers can now be up to two litres each,” the airport’s spokesperson said.

In the past year, seven of the UK’s 10 busiest airports have increased the cost of dropping off a loved one before travel – to the point that London Luton is now more expensive than a stay at the Ritz

Drop-off charges at one major UK airport have risen so much it’s more expensive – minute by minute – seeing a loved one off than staying at the Ritz hotel in London.

Most of the UK’s busiest airports have upped the prices of their drop-off zones, commonly known as “kiss and fly” areas, where travellers can say a quick farewell to their loved ones before jetting off. In the past year, seven of the aviation hubs have either increased prices or reduced how long drivers can stay before higher fees are applicable.

Luton Airport currently has the highest per-minute cost the UK’s busiest airports – charging £5 for five minutes before the £1 a minute fare rolls in for a maximum of 20. These prices rose steeply following the renovation of Luton’s drop-off zone after it was torched in a fire in October 2023. Before the fire, it was £5 for 10 minutes followed by the £1-a-minute charge.

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For a deluxe king room at Mayfair’s Ritz hotel, you’d pay £1,149 per night, which works out at around 91p a minute. The airport said the charge helps maintain the flow of passengers and traffic, claiming that the majority of visits are within five minutes. They signposted customers to the mid-stay car park, which is a ten-minute walk to the airport terminal.

It tells The Times: “With a £5 fee, the barrierless system keeps passengers and the traffic flowing, with the average time spent in the area well within five minutes. For those with more time, drivers have a range of free and paid-for drop off, pick up and parking options to choose from.”

According to the RAC, these kiss and fly charges are “bordering on the ridiculous”. Rod Dennis from the RAC said: “Drivers will be understandably aghast at the prospect of paying as much as £7 for what amounts to nothing more than opening the boot so a friend or relative can collect their luggage and catch their flight.

“The problem is a lack of practical — and affordable — alternatives for getting to many airports. Faced with the choice of a double-decker bus with lots of luggage, or forking out for a taxi, it’s easy to see why people feel they have no option other than to drive.”

Many of the major airports ask drivers to pay before or after they arrive and late payment charges are issued if a payment isn’t made within 24 hours or by midnight the following day.

Graham Conway from Select Car Leasing, based in Reading, said: “Failingto pay for drop-off parking or exceeding your time limit can really hit you in the wallet. It’s all too easy to forget to log on and to then remember with a sense of dread when it’s too late.”

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Tuesday that it was scrapping a policy requiring people to take off their shoes while passing through airport screenings.

The policy, long a source of ire for travellers, had its roots in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks on the US, when authorities sought to bolster security around air travel through a host of measures.

Many more rules have been added in the time since, some criticised as arbitrary and needlessly intrusive, and have been supplemented by the integration of measures such as facial scanning technology at airports across the country.

What’s behind the change, what rules remain, and could other policies change next?

STARS, STRIPES, AND SHOES ON! 🇺🇸👟

Under the leadership of @Sec_Noem, DHS is announcing a new policy today which will allow passengers traveling through domestic airports to keep their shoes on through security screening at TSA checkpoints.

This policy change will drastically… pic.twitter.com/clyk46RXvI

— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) July 8, 2025

What was the ‘shoes off’ policy?

The “shoes off” policy was first implemented by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in 2006 and required travellers to remove their shoes as they advanced through airport security screenings to check them for possible explosives.

Those enrolled in TSA PreCheck, a programme in which people who pass a basic security check are allowed to bypass certain airport security measures, had already been allowed to pass through screenings with their shoes on.

Why was it implemented?

The policy was the result of a failed December 2001 attack by a British man named Richard Reid, who packed explosives into his shoes and tried to detonate them during a flight from Paris to Miami.

The incident, like many attempted attacks carried out in the post-9/11 period, was highly amateur: Reid, a petty criminal who became an Islamic fundamentalist, was foiled after an airline worker noticed that he was trying to light his shoe on fire with a match.

But the failed attack played into fears that were prominent during the post-9/11 era. And, when it came to safety, why take a chance?

“TSA can’t just rely on the next attack being as incompetent as this one was,” Jay Stanley, a privacy advocate and senior policy analyst at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), told Al Jazeera.

The agency asked people, on a voluntary basis, to consider removing their shoes while passing through screening so they could be checked for explosives. TSA later made the policy mandatory in August 2006.

Why was the policy scrapped?

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said in a statement on Tuesday that eliminating the policy would remove a source of strain on travellers and reduce TSA wait times at airports, and was no longer necessary due to technological innovations.

“We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience,” she said.

The change was effective immediately.

What other policies remain in place, and could they change?

While the “no shoes” policy is gone, travellers expecting an easy, stress-free trip to the airport should temper their expectations as many other security measures remain in place.

Passengers will, for example, still have to remove their belts, coats, laptops, and certain items from their bags while passing through security. Rules limiting gels and liquids in carry-on items to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) still apply, and checked bags must also be subjected to X-ray screenings.

Canines used for detecting bombs and drugs are still frequently used, and full-body scanners were brought to airports after another failed attack in December 2009, in which a man tried to detonate explosives smuggled onto a plane in his underwear.

Noem has suggested that DHS is reviewing some rules, but did not offer further details.

Are those measures effective or just security theatre?

Travellers have long fumed about an ever-growing list of measures that can seem arbitrary and do not always have a clear utility.

While the government argues that the increases in airport security reflect efforts to patch up vulnerabilities exposed by the 9/11 hijackers and subsequent failed attacks, some experts say that certain measures provide the impression of security more than provable benefits.

“People are hesitant to push back against new rules because nobody wants to be seen as responsible if there’s another attack,” said Stanley.

“Security theatre has always been a part of this, where you make a big show of security in order to give people the impression of greater safety.”

But enforcing so many rules can be difficult for agency workers themselves, who have the industrial-scale task of screening around two million travellers per day.

A 2015 report from the agency’s inspector general found that TSA officers had failed to detect weapons, explosives and other prohibited items brought through security by undercover agents to test the effectiveness of the system in 95 percent of cases.

Despite such concerns, TSA has continued to grow in size and scope each year. The agency has a workforce of nearly 63,000 people and a budget that is set to reach more than $11bn in 2025. In 2006, when “shoes off” was first implemented, it was around $6bn.

What new technologies are being used in airport security?

In her statement, Noem said that one of the reasons that the “shoes off” policy could be safely discarded is that “cutting-edge technological advancements” have rendered it unnecessary.

One that travellers may have noticed is the greater use of facial recognition technology, a development some privacy advocates have viewed with concern.

What are the privacy concerns?

Petra Molnar, a lawyer and author of the book, The Walls Have Eyes: Surviving Migration in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, told Al Jazeera that in an era of heightening restrictions on movement, airports have become testing grounds for new technologies, with civil liberties a largely secondary concern.

“With increasingly more digital technologies used at borders, airports have become epicentres of surveillance tech, with facial recognition and biometric technologies augmenting to physical surveillance practices,” said Molnar.

“Airports and borders are often one of the first places where new surveillance technologies are tested out, often with little regulation and oversight. Airports are the true testing grounds where unregulated technology experiments can run unchecked.”

While the decision to scrap the “shoes off” policy is a rare example of airport security measures being dialed back in the name of efficiency and convenience, it also comes at a time when those traveling or returning to the US are increasingly wary of being pulled aside and questioned about their political views on topics such as Israel’s war in Gaza.

The administration of President Donald Trump recently warned, for example, that international students entering the US must make their social media profiles available for inspection by authorities.

“The goal of security measures should be to ensure that nobody can get through this security process if they pose a threat,” said Stanley. “The problems start when the government tries to categorise people by traits they believe could make them a risk, and to do that, you need to go into people’s lives and find out more about them.”

July 8 (UPI) — The Transportation Safety Administration will soon let passengers keep their shoes while they go through security checkpoints at select airports.

ABC News reports that a memo went out to TSA officers nationwide last week that stated the new policy would start Sunday, and CBS News correspondents at New York City’s LaGuardia Airport and Los Angeles International Airport reported Monday that they and other passengers were permitted to keep their shoes on during the screening process. NBC News reports a press release received Monday states the TSA is “exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience and our strong security posture.”

NBC also reported Tuesday that a senior government official said that while this is only happening now at selected airports, the rule could be relaxed across the country in the future.

Other airports where the shoe rule is ending include Baltimore/Washington International Airport, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, Fort Lauderdale International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, Piedmont Triad International Airport in North Carolina and Portland International Airport.

However, the memo notes those who set off an alarm while being screened will then be required to take their shoes off for additional screening.

Shoe removal while being screened began in 2006 due to intelligence that indicated a threat that began after Richard Reid unsuccessfully tried to ignite homemade shoe explosives on an American Airlines flight from Paris to Miami in December of 2001.

Jet2 and Jet2holidays have unveiled the details of its “biggest ever Winter Sun programme” however eager travellers will need to read the fine print before booking their flight

Jet2 has announced a whole host of new flight routes for Brits to enjoy – but there are a few details you should know before booking your travel. Jet2 and Jet2holidays have released the details of “their biggest ever Winter Sun programme” though there’s one catch pausing the excitement of travellers.

Eager travellers will need to wait before enjoying the suite of new offerings, which are planned for the Winter 26/27 season. While patience is required, you can still plan ahead to make the most of the new deals and flight routes.

The programme will mean more seats and choice across 13 of Jet2’s UK airport bases. It also includes two brand-new winter routes as well as significant expansion to their Morocco, Malta and Madeira programmes.

Jet2’s winter sun destinations

The programme expansion represents a capacity increase of 4% for the UK’s largest tour operator compared to its Winter 25/26 programme. Travellers will have their choice of 13 winter sun destinations departing from the following airports:

• Belfast International
• Birmingham
• Bournemouth
• Bristol
• East Midlands
• Edinburgh
• Glasgow
• Leeds Bradford
• Liverpool John Lennon
• London Stansted
• London Luton
• Manchester
• Newcastle International

With destinations like Mainland Spain and the Balearics enjoying ever-increasing popularity, the companies have listed two new winter routes on sale from their newest UK airport bases – Bournemouth to Malaga and London Luton to Palma (Majorca).

In all, millions of seats are on sale across popular winter sun destinations in the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura), Mainland Spain (Alicante and Malaga), Majorca (Palma), Portugal (Faro and Madeira), Turkey (Antalya), Malta, Morocco (Marrakech and Agadir) and Cyprus (Paphos) and during peak periods, the airline and tour operator will operate over 600 weekly outbound flights.

READ MORE: easyJet expands UK flights with 11 new routes to European hotspots this summer

Belfast International Airport will have ten sun destinations on sale, with over 25 departing weekly flights during peak periods. Destinations include Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Malaga, Alicante, Antalya, Faro, Madeira and Palma.

Birmingham Airport will be one of the busiest bases of all with over 65 weekly departing flights during peak periods in Winter 26/27. The 14 winter sun destinations on sale departing from Birmingham include Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Malaga, Alicante, Palma, Antalya, Faro, Madeira, Paphos, Malta, Marrakech and Agadir. You can read the full list of airports and their new departures here.

Jet2 and Jet2Holiday are also set to reveal details of their Ski, City Breaks and Iceland programmes for Winter 26/27 in the coming weeks.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “We are pleased to be offering our biggest and most exciting Winter Sun programme ever, giving customers and independent travel agents even more choice and flexibility for next winter.

“As ever, we have designed our programme in direct response to ongoing demand from holidaymakers, so as well as launching two new winter routes, we are delighted to be expanding our Winter offering to other fantastic destinations too.”

The new terminal is part of the first phase of Leeds Bradford Airport’s £100 million terminal expansion project

Passengers at Leeds Bradford Airport have hailed the new terminal as ‘brill’ and even ‘better than Manchester Airport’ on its opening day.

The airport’s £100 million terminal expansion project has unveiled a host of new facilities, including additional seating, two new lounges, an improved baggage reclaim area, and an upgraded passport control.

From Tuesday, all passengers arriving and departing via LBA will move through the upgraded terminal facilities. The terminal expansion includes a modernised arrivals process, including a new baggage reclaim area and an upgraded passport control facility incorporating advanced security technologies.

The new terminal has 83% more seating, an “food and drink offering” and two premium lounges, including the brand-new Six Eight One Premium Lounge.

Travellers heading to Krakow on Tuesday, June 17, shared their thoughts on the new amenities and how they stack up against Manchester.

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Polish couple Szymon Machynia and Agata Koc, who were off to a religious ceremony related to their Rodzimowierstwo faith, which inspired elements in ‘The Witcher’ Netflix series, praised the new setup, reports Leeds Live.

Szymon, a mill operative, expressed his disdain for Manchester Airport: “I hate Manchester, I despise that airport. It’s hard to get in there, it’s easy to get lost around. If they change something you suddenly have to go from one spot in the airport to the other. It’s awful.

“Leeds is nice and small. Security was brill, it was fast and simple. The new gate was great and the new machines improve the process. I still had to take my shoes off – but maybe one day we’ll get there.”

Agata, a photographer, also shared her approval: “I think this terminal is better than the other one. The old one was small but this one is open and everything was [clearly] signposted where to go.”

Doncaster-based plumber Filip Dziegielewski, 39, set to embark on a European jaunt with friends, praised the convenience of his departure point, remarking, “It looks very nice and tidy, very modern. Good connections. Security was very fast today, everything was working.”

He added, “Leeds will be better than Manchester once they finish work on the bus from Doncaster to Leeds. It’s 40 miles but it takes one and half hour. Manchester is busy and here it is very quiet.”

Wakefield local, technical logistics supervisor and father-of-three Slawomir Baokowski, 38, on his way to see family, expressed enthusiasm about the airport. He said “It’s fantastic, honestly. It’s really nice and fresh, good job. There’s loads here. Honestly, and it’s the first time I say this, but it’s better in Leeds than Manchester Airport. In Manchester, there’s too many people there.”

Alan Brytan, 23, who specialises in quality control, heading to reunite with relatives, was not aware work was underway.

“It’s quite surprising, to be honest, I wasn’t aware of it. It’s come together really nicely. This was completely new news to me. I got a notification on my phone saying ‘gate seven’, and I asked some guy about it. It’s a whole new terminal, like a whole new world. It looks much nicer.,” he said.

“If you want to travel, it’s still better just to go to Manchester. If you’re going closer to home then this is the better airport.”

You may be surprised to know that the London-based airport enforces a ‘two-bag policy’ at its security point to avoid delays

With summer on the horizon, many Brits are preparing for sunny vacations overseas. However, before heading to Heathrow Airport, familiarising yourself with its current policies and regulations is essential.

Carrying flammable substances or toxic items is a clear no-go when flying from any airport. However, what may be less known is Heathrow’s baggage limit for travellers at its security checkpoints.

You may be surprised to know that the London-based airport enforces a ‘two-bag policy’ at its security point to avoid delays. This means only two hand baggage items can be taken through the control area.

“To avoid delays, Heathrow operates a two-bag policy at airport security,” advice at the airport’s site reads. “Handbags and laptop bags count as a piece of hand baggage.”

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As part of this rule, any item larger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (22in x 18in x 10in) must be checked in as hold luggage. In turn, passengers are more likely to keep their security tray usage to a minimum, limiting delays for others.

Besides this, it’s also important to consider the dos and don’ts of what to put in this hand luggage. For instance, only specific electronic devices are permitted on flights from the UK.

While some airlines might have different restrictions, the UK Government outlines nine key items you can take in both your hand luggage and hold luggage:

• Hairdryers
• Straighteners
• Travel iron
• Electric shaver
• Most cameras
• Mobile phones
• Laptops
• Tablet devices
• MP3 players

It is essential for passengers using e-cigarettes to carry them in their hand luggage rather than in their hold luggage. When passing through security checks, placing electronic devices in a designated tray allows staff to see and verify that no prohibited items are hidden.

Heathrow Airport’s advice also adds: “Please ensure your electronic devices are charged. If they don’t switch on, you may not be allowed to take them onto the aircraft. Charging points are available throughout the airport.”

On the flipside, most UK airports – including Heathrow – require liquids to fit inside a single transparent plastic bag when passing through security. Each liquid container must hold a maximum of 100ml, and the plastic bag must be approximately 20cm x 20cm.

The Government’s website clarifies that all items should fit ‘comfortably inside the bag’ so that it can be sealed. To avoid complications, do not attempt to seal it by tying a knot at the top, as it will not be accepted.

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Below is the UK Government’s complete list of items categorised as hand luggage liquids:

• Liquid or semi-liquid foods, for example, soup, jam, honey and syrups
• Any other solutions and items of similar consistency
• Sprays, including shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants
• Contact lens solution
• Pastes, including toothpaste
• Gels, including hair and shower gel
• All drinks, including water
• Cosmetics and toiletries, including creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss

Solid products like deodorant sticks, soap bars, wet wipes, and lip balms are usually considered non-liquids. Therefore, they typically don’t require storage in the bag.

Guidance from Heathrow Airport adds: “Only limited quantities of liquids may be carried through airport security into the departure lounge. This includes bottled drinks, suntan lotion, fragrances, cosmetics, toiletries and all frozen liquids.

“…Liquids in containers over 100ml will not be permitted through security – please pack them in your hold baggage instead.”

Making the one change not only saves you time and money but also helps the environment

UK airports are keen to ditch the 100ml liquids rule for anyone carrying hand luggage through security this summer. However, until that happens, travellers must continue to limit and pack any liquids from their hand luggage in a clear bag for security reasons.

This has led to a surge in the use of disposable clear plastic bags for toiletries and other liquids across the country. Some UK airports have relaxed the rules around liquids in hand luggage, reducing the need for these plastic bags. However, others still enforce the rule.

The lack of consistency across the UK means many holiday-goers will continue to rely on putting their 100ml liquids in a disposable plastic bag. Even though the UK is eager to abolish the rules as soon as possible, thanks to advanced scanners, you may find that the airport you’re returning from still insists on bagged 100ml liquids.

Fresh data from plastic waste experts at BusinessWaste.co.uk suggests that a staggering 235 million single-use plastic bags could be used in 2025. The data also reveals that an astonishing 3.5 billion bags have been used since the rules were first introduced in 2006, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The 100ml liquid regulation at airports, which mandates that liquids be stored in transparent, resealable plastic bags, was put in place in 2006 after a terror plot to blow up transatlantic flights was prevented. This plot involved the use of liquid explosives that were concealed as soft drinks in carry-on luggage.

With an estimated 313 million passengers expected to pass through UK airports this year, the number of single-use plastic liquid bags used and discarded could hit 235 million. That’s enough to fill two Olympic-sized swimming pools in just one year in the UK.

Data projections indicate that a staggering 3.5 billion bags may have been used at UK airports over the last 19 years. When arranged end to end, this quantity of bags equates to 18 journeys around the Earth’s equator or four times the height of Mount Everest when piled up.

Why does it matter?

These bags are crafted from soft plastics, which are rarely recyclable. They frequently end up in landfill sites, where they can take as long as 1,000 years to decompose.

As these plastic items deteriorate, they can generate minuscule particles known as microplastics. Studies reveal that these pose a threat to both human and animal health. The energy and materials needed to manufacture these bags are depleting our planet’s natural resources, with 98% of single-use plastic products made from fossil fuels or virgin feedstock.

What steps can you take?

Firstly, make sure you’re familiar with the regulations of your departure airport. With many soon to adjust to new rules, there might be no need to bag liquids at all. If you’re checking in luggage, avoid placing any liquids in your hand luggage. This eliminates the requirement for any small plastic bags and could also save you time at security checks, as many will wait until they arrive at security to bag up their liquids, which adds to the queue.

If reusable options aren’t feasible, BusinessWaste is requesting travellers ditch single-use clear plastic bags in favour of reusable ones at UK airports this summer. The company recommends switching to reusable ones and says there is an array of reusable choices available online and in stores, like Boots and Superdrug. However, just make sure they measure 20cm x 20cm, are transparent, have a capacity no greater than one litre, comply with airport regulations, and can be securely sealed (by a zipper).

Another tip is to use airside click-and-collect services for toiletries. This not only bypasses steep airport prices but also eliminates the need to carry liquids in hand luggage, saving space, money, and benefiting the environment.

If you do take liquids in your hand luggage, at most airports:

• containers must hold no more than 100ml
• containers must be in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm x 20cm
• contents must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be sealed
• the bag must not be knotted or tied at the top
• you’re limited to one plastic bag per person
• you must show the bag at the airport security point

For those who do bring liquids in their carry-on, Gov.uk advises: “Liquids in containers larger than 100ml generally cannot go through security even if the container is only part full. There are some exemptions. Some airports may allow you to take containers of liquid up to 100ml through security in your hand luggage. Check with the airport before you travel. Also, check the rules at other airports you’ll be travelling through – for example, on your return journey.”

Graham Matthews, a plastic waste expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk, says making the swap from disposable plastic bags to reusable ones for 100ml hand luggage liquids should be done as soon as possible to avoid even more waste building up. He said: “The plastic bags we use to bring liquids through airports are a huge blight on the environment.

“While you may only go on holiday once or twice a year, this quickly adds up as the UK now sees around 300 million air passengers a year. We’re really happy to see the new scanners in place and hope that this reduces the reliance on single-use plastic bags.

“However, old habits die hard, and many people will be nervous to change to the new system, or find that their return airport still requires liquids to be bagged. For anyone in this position, and until the new rules are firmly in place, we strongly encourage passengers to consider utilising hold luggage, switching to reusable options, or making use of airside click-and-collect.”

UK holidaymakers could experience serious travel disruption over the busy summer holiday period, as workers in two major airports could ballot over strike action against their employer

Brits could face serious travel disruption over the summer holidays, as workers at two major UK airports threaten strike action.

Unite the Union has revealed that staff at Edinburgh and Glasgow Airport have overwhelmingly rejected ‘unacceptable’ pay offers from their employer, Menzies Aviation. An overwhelming 97 per cent of around 300 workers at Glasgow Airport and 100 per cent of some 300 workers at Edinburgh Airport voted against the proposed deals.

The union has since warned that unless Menzies Aviation presents an improved offer, it will be forced to ballot members for strike action, potentially causing summer travel chaos. “Summer strike action looms over Edinburgh and Glasgow airports because the pay offers on the table from Menzies Aviation aren’t good enough,” Unite industrial officer Carrie Binnie said.

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“Menzies Aviation has the ability to improve its offers and they can easily resolve this pay dispute without any disruption to the travelling public. If the company fail to table a better offer to our members, Unite will have no option but to ballot our members for strikes over the summer holidays.”

Glasgow rejected a 4.25 per cent pay increase, while Edinburgh rejected a four per cent increase. The union emphasised that the ground crew workers, including dispatchers, allocators, airside agents, and controllers, all play a vital role in supporting major airlines.

The threat of industrial action follows similar tensions last year. However, these strikes were called off when workers accepted a new and improved pay deal in July, 2024.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham added: “Unite’s Menzies members have emphatically rejected unacceptable pay offers. The Menzies group is posting sky-high profits and our members who contribute towards this success deserve far better from the company.”

Last year, Edinburgh Airport handled a record-breaking 15.78 million passengers, a 10 per cent increase compared to the year before. Despite only having one runway and one terminal, 37 airlines operate from the hub – travelling to 155 different destinations.

Glasgow Airport is much smaller, and only welcomed 7.5 million passengers last year. Still, it was a 13 per cent increase from the previous year – and outranks Aberdeen (2.2 million) and Inverness (801,000) combined. According to reports, the hub flies to 27 different countries and offers 185 routes.

If your flight has been cancelled delayed in the last six year, or five in Scotland, you could still be eligible for compensation. You can find out more here.

PA approached Menzies Aviation for comment.

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Swathes of Brits have been stung by a post-Brexit passport rule that has sparked mass confusion – and resulted in passengers being denied boarding, despite having documentation that is still ‘in date’

Brits jetting off across Europe this summer risk being turned away at the gate – even if their passport is still ‘in-date’. Swathes of disgruntled passengers are still being caught out by a sneaky post-Brexit rule that could completely sabotage your next holiday. Even with soaring prices, it might be worth renewing your passport now – rather than risk being denied to fly at the airport.

According to reports, around half a dozen Brits were being turned away every single day at one UK airport due to the way the passport rules – which many feel are extremely unclear – were being applied. So, here’s everything you need to know about travelling across Europe this summer, and when you should renew your passport.

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“If you are a national from a country outside the EU wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a valid passport and possibly a visa,” explains the European Union. “Your passport should be valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU and it must have been issued within the last 10 years.”

To clarify, this means your passport must have been issued within the previous 10 years on the day that you enter an EU country. It must also be valid until the end of your stay, plus an additional three months.

However, one British artist was denied boarding by Norwegian airlines on March 23 as her passport was issued ‘more than nine years and nine months ago’. Her passport’s date of issue was June 13, 2015 – and it is due to expire in August – meaning she meets both criteria laid out by the EU.

“Upon arriving at check-in, the automated system directed me to the desk,” she said. “The staff member consulted a colleague, who stated my passport was invalid because it was issued more than nine years and nine months ago. But there is no such rule. This decision demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of the actual entry requirements.”

The anonymous artist claims she lost around £700, and had to spend hundreds of pounds on an emergency passport renewal and replacement flight. According to the Guardian, The Copenhagen police department stood by its decision – and confirmed that once a passport is nine years and nine months old from the date of issue – it is invalid – as the Schengen does not recognise ‘extensions of 10-year-passports’.

Prior to October 2018, Brits renewing their passports could add up to nine extra months from their previous passport on to the expiry date. But post-Brexit, and EU countries are refusing to accept passports that have been issued more than 10 years ago altogether.

How much is a new passport?

Passport fees increased last month (April, 10) meaning a standard online application made from within the UK rose from £88.50 to £94.50 for adults and £57.50 to £61.50 for children. Postal applications also increased from £100 to £107 for adults and £69 to £74 for children.

According to GOV UK, the fee for a Premium Service (one day) application made from within in the UK is now £222 for adults and £189 for children, while overseas standard paper applications increased from £112.50 to £120.50 for adults and £77 to £82.50 for children.

“The new fees will help the Home Office to continue to move towards a system that meets its costs through those who use it, reducing reliance on funding from general taxation.,” the government added. “The government does not make any profit from the cost of passport applications.”

Have you been stung by the passport change? Email [email protected] for a chance to share your story

As part of an epic 10-year programme to transform its hub, one major UK airport has revealed its latest multi-million pound investment plan to turn around a controversial terminal

One of the UK’s busiest airports has finally revealed plans to transform its terminal which Brits have branded ‘truly abysmal’. Handling around 30 million passengers every year, Manchester Airport is the largest of its kind in the north of England – with around 261 flights leaving the hub daily.

However, last year the airport came bottom in Which?’s league tables, after the consumer brand analysed responses from almost 7,000 members. Manchester Airport’s Terminal 3 received a measly 37 per cent approval rate – with travellers giving it just two stars for queues at the checkin-desk, bag drop, and passport control.

The tiny terminal, which mainly deals with low-cost airlines like Ryanair, only managed to scrape one star for queues at security, level of seating available, staff, and prices in shops, bars and restaurants. On social media, it’s clear the terminal’s reputation isn’t much better.

“Manchester Airport Terminal 3 is the depths of hell,” one person moaned on X (formerly Twitter). Another agreed, scathing: “Manchester Terminal 3, you are awful.” A third added: “Terminal 3 at Manchester Airport is truly abysmal,” while a fourth dubbed it the ‘worst’ terminal in the UK.

However, last week (May 13, 2025) Manchester Airport revealed a huge multi-million pound investment to revamp Terminal 3, as part of its £1.3 billion transformation programme. The mega face-lift, which aims to free-up space and improve the passenger experience, will see a new entrance with ‘more space, easier access and better facilities’.

The terminal will also welcome brand new security equipment and 40 per cent more seating capacity in the departure lounge, along with new shops and food and drink outlets, located both airside and landside. Grabbing a pint or meal pre-flight will also get a whole lot easier, as the terminal revamp will include a new 500-seat bar area with airfield views, as well as a dining area expansion that will see 200 extra seats.

Terminal 3’s expansion will see Terminal 1 (as it currently is) close for good as it merges together. Terminal 2, which has already had a major revamp, will also double its size as part of the 10-year investment plan.

“The work we’ve done in Terminal 2 is there for all to see – and we’ve already won the prestigious Prix Versailles award for its architecture and design. But until now we haven’t talked about our plans for Terminal 3,” said Manchester Airport managing director Chris Woodroofe.

“Moving to a two-terminal airport is giving us a great opportunity to use some of the existing Terminal 1 space to increase the footprint of Terminal 3. We’re doing that as well as making some all round improvements to Terminal 3 – so passengers will enjoy new security technology, more space, more seats, new retail and food and drink, and more. It’s another exciting step towards delivering an even better experience for our passengers and I can’t wait to see it progress.”

External work on the new pier on Terminal 2 – the second pier – has also taken a significant step closer to completion. The piers on the terminal are structures that extend from the main building and are home to the gates where passengers embark and disembark.

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