Teesside International Airport in Darlington has become the first airport in the UK to be fully ready for new security rules, having installed a second CT scanner at its security checkpoint.
In December 2022, the UK government set a June 2024 deadline for airports to install the latest security technology. This upgrade will allow passengers to leave liquids and large electrical items in their bags as they go through security.
Now, 18 months ahead of the deadline, Teesside has installed a second C3-compliant scanner. This new machine joins an existing scanner at the airport, which was trialled last year to speed up the security process.
This installation makes Teesside the first airport in the UK to be 100% operationally ready for the new security rules.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said:Great summer flights we’ve secured from Teesside mean we need the right facilities to meet the demand of new passengers wanting to support our airport. 2022 was our busiest summer in decades, and we’re working to make 2023 even better. To be the first airport in the UK ready for the new security rules means passengers will have an unparalleled and seamless journey through our state-of-the-art security area.
Having not one but two of these cutting-edge machines means the sky really is the limit in our efforts to bring more people through our terminal doors as we push our airport to profit. With our new cargo facility set to have a bumper 2023, and the Southside Business Park coming together too, this year promises to be a great one.
Prior to a change in regulations, passengers are initially still required to remove tablets, laptops and liquids from their cabin baggage, while liquids will be limited to 100ml per item and must be in a clear plastic bag. However, these requirements will be lifted from March 2023, when the 100ml liquid container limit will be extended to 2 litres.
This change will result in greater convenience for travellers and will improve the airport’s efficiency at security checkpoints. In addition, it will enhance passenger safety, as the scanners provide security staff with a more detailed images of what people are carrying.
Phil Forster, Teesside Airport Managing Director, said:It’s a source of great pride and satisfaction that our international airport is the first in the UK to be fully prepared for the rule changes. Our facilities have come on leaps and bounds in the past three years – and I can’t wait for what 2023 has in store.
