Birmingham Airport is gearing up for its busiest summer period ever, with over 2.5 million passengers expected to pass through the terminals. To ensure a smooth journey, the airport has released essential tips for travellers.
New Security Rules for Liquids and Electronics
Chris Wilson, Head of Terminal and Capacity Planning at Birmingham Airport, said: “Passengers are reminded that Birmingham Airport now allows for liquids up to 2 litres and all electricals, such as laptops, mobile phones and tablets, to be kept in hand luggage when going through security, this includes lithium batteries that can only go in hand luggage.”
Liquid restrictions have changed: passengers can carry liquids, pastes, and gels in containers up to 2 litres in hand luggage, with no limit on the number of containers. However, due to varying safety guidelines, not all airports allow 2 litres yet, so travellers should check with all airlines and airports on their route.
eGates Now Available for Children Aged 8 and Over
Wilson added: “Families travelling this summer should also be aware that children aged eight and over can now use UK eGates if they are at least 120cm tall, hold an eligible biometric passport and are accompanied by an adult. This will mean that families with children eight and above can use the e-gates together making border control more convenient.”
Eligible passengers include those with biometric passports from the UK, EU, EEA, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, or the USA. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Security Screening Tips
All electrical items must remain in hand luggage during security. Aluminium or metal bottles and flasks should be emptied beforehand; refill stations are available after security free of charge. Passengers should empty pockets of phones, keys, coins, earphones, and tissues. Watches can be left on, but belts and shoes may need to be removed if requested.
Those with external medical devices, internal implants, or prosthetics should inform security officers before entering the scanner.
Battery and Vape Restrictions
Vapes, e-cigarettes, and devices containing lithium-ion batteries (e.g., DSLR cameras) must never be packed in hold luggage. Most airlines allow them in cabin baggage, but passengers should confirm with their airline. Contact details for all airlines operating at Birmingham Airport are available in the Airport's Airline Directory.
Check-In and Bag Drop
Each airline has its own check-in time; passengers should arrive when check-in opens. Customers flying with easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, or TUI can use the twilight service to drop bags the day before for eligible flights. Specific times should be confirmed with the airline.
Check-in zones are as follows: Zone A for Jet2, Zone D for Emirates, and Zones B & C for all other airlines.
Passengers are reminded to keep all personal belongings with them at all times. For further queries, the airport recommends visiting the Frequently Asked Questions page on its website.
