Watch: Faster security coming to Birmingham Airport - here’s when

Birmingham Airport promises a smoother security experience for summer travellers, becoming the first major UK airport to introduce new technology allowing unrestricted liquids. Starting June 1, a new security hall will welcome all passengers, thanks to £60 million invested in the project. This advancement aims to serve more travellers per hour, reducing wait times. 

Unlike other airports such as Manchester and Gatwick, Birmingham's passengers will benefit from 3D security scanners, permitting liquids over 100ml and eliminating the need to remove large electronic devices from hand luggage. It is hoped the improvements will improve convenience and efficiency at the Airport.

Are there any changes at the airport ahead of the new security hall opening on June 1?

The creation of the hall has been a huge logistical exercise for the 85-year-old airport which hopes it will help increase the number of passengers that use it. Four new 50-person lifts have been put in place to take people from the ground floor check-in and first floor departure areas.

The airport has already started to introduce the new machines to the customers, with three machines available, which are being tested. The building’s old escalators have been removed and the external facade of the terminal building has been moved outwards to create more space for customers as they enter the terminal.

All staff training on the new scanners has now been done in time for June 1, which was the Department for Transport’s deadline for major airports to replace existing 2D screening technology.

Airport chief executive Nick Barton, commenting on the next generation security project, said: “Birmingham Airport has invested £60m in a new security hall and scanning equipment. From June 1 our customers will start to see the benefits of the new security systems as we roll them out which will result in a speedier, simpler pre-flight security screening process for our customers.

“In the meantime, up until the June 1date, our existing security restrictions remain in place. It is timely to remind all customers that they still need to remove electricals during the search process and only carry liquids, pastes and gels, up to 100ml, in 20cm x 20cm in resealable bags in their hand luggage.”