Air Travel Rules UK FAQS
How long before my flight should I get to the airport?
This varies quite a bit. It can depend on the size
of the airport and the time of day you are travelling, and whether
you are flying to a domestic, European or international destination
- so it iss best to find out from the airline directly beforehand.
As a general rule, many airports recommend at least
two hours before you travel and it's always better to arrive with
time to spare.
You can help to take the stress out of the day by
making sure you are prepared before you leave home. For example,
make sure you know which terminal you're flying from; keep tickets
and passports handy; make sure cabin baggage meets the airline's
size requirements; and pack any liquids into the baggage that will
go in the hold.
How many bags can I check-in?
Airlines have varying limits as to what they will
put in the hold, usually measured by weight, so it is best to check
beforehand.
How many bags will I be able to take on to the
plane with me?
Passengers are limited to one item
of cabin baggage, whatever class of travel.
Make sure everything you need for the plane can
fit into a single bag that is no more than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (including
wheels, handles and external pockets).
It's vitally important to note that the one bag
rule covers laptop bags, handbags and purses as well so they will
all need to fit into your one bag to pass through the security check.
Be aware that some airlines may require a smaller
bag for commercial reasons.
Also, any large electrical items (including laptops,
hairdryers etc) will be screened separately, so it's best to keep
them accessible.
What are the rules about liquids and how much
is too much?
Since the alleged plot last summer, tighter security
measures for liquids have been in force at UK, European and international
airports.
If you need to, you can take small quantities
of liquids through security. But only if they are carried in a single,
clear, re-sealable plastic bag and each item is placed in a separate
container no greater than 100ml. A freezer bag – approximately
20cm x 20cm or smaller - is about the right size.
Liquids of any size can still be checked into the
hold, so it's best to put these in your main suitcase. You can always
buy drinks or toiletries in the departure lounge if you need to,
since the goods will have been security screened beforehand.
Containers larger than 100ml such as drinks bottles
(including water), even though it might only contain 100ml, are
NOT permitted.
What do I do with my medicine or my child's inhaler?
Inhalers are allowed through, along with any other
medicines in tablet or powder form.
Essential medicines that you will need during your
trip must be checked through security. Again, they have to be in
your clear, plastic, re-sealable bag and in containers of less than
100ml.
For essential medicines of more than 100ml, you
will require supporting documentation from a relevant qualified
medical professional and prior approval from the airline. This applies
to everything from cough medicine through to insulin.
You can also be asked to verify medicines at security,
which may involve tasting, or testing on the skin.
Remember, spare containers can always be packed
in your hold baggage and you should always make sure you have enough
medicine for the whole holiday.
What about other essentials and what do I do
about the baby bottle or nappy cream?
Liquid baby food or sterilised water, sufficient
for the journey, can be taken through airport security. The accompanying
adult will be required to verify by tasting.
You may also be asked to verify liquids such as
nappy cream by testing it on your skin.
Can I take my make-up and hairspray on board
with me through security?
Again, only in containers of 100ml and inside the
plastic bag - provided it will fit amongst other liquid items you
wish to bring. If in doubt, it is by far better to put your make-up
and any sprays into your hold baggage.
Is it OK to have alcohol in my baggage?
Yes, you can check alcohol into the hold baggage
and any duty free you buy in the departure lounge can be taken with
you on board.
But remember that the liquids restrictions apply
at all EU airports and a growing number of other airports across
the world, so you might need to pack duty free in the hold baggage
for your return journey.
I have to transfer what will happen to the liquids
I've bought on the way out after going through all the security?
Restrictions apply at transfer points as well. So
if you buy a product in Duty Free and it is provided in a sealed
bag you MUST NOT open it until you reach your final destination.
You should also retain your proof of purchase throughout your journey
as you will be required to show it at all transfer points. Always
check at your Duty Free shop, or with your carrier.
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