With effect from the 7 January 2008, the following hand baggage restrictions will apply for travel through security control at BAA Heathrow and Manchester.

For passengers travelling in the economy sections of aircraft, the allowance will be to take ONE item (25cmx45cmx56cm) of hand baggage through security control, plus ONE additional personal item.

For passengers travelling in premium cabins- business or first class cabins- the allowance will be to take TWO items (25cmx45cmx56cm) of hand baggage through security control, plus ONE additional personal item.

Definition of a personal item

In addition to their carry-on bag(s) customers may bring ONE personal item, which includes a purse, briefcase, laptop or baby changing bag. Laptops in a thin satchel and slim briefcases are considered a personal item: however laptops in larger computer bags and larger, bulkier briefcases are counted as one piece of hand baggage.

Security Guidelines

The BAA website (BAA.com) provides further details of the security guidelines that apply. The other restrictions that currently apply under legislation have not been varied by this instructions and will continue to apply, including the 100ml liquids, rule whereby liquid items may only be carried in containers holding up to 100ml and must be carried separately in a single, transparent, re-seable plastic bag. For the avoidance of doubt such a bag will not count towards the bag count outlined above.

Please check for latest information at The Department for Transport before you are travelling.