Credit: Steve Parsons/PA Archive/PA Images

All major airports in the UK will be required to install 3D scanning technology by the end of 2022, prime minister Boris Johnson has announced.

The equipment is designed to provide security staff with clear, three-dimensional images of the contents of people’s bags. This will allow for speedier security scanning, the government said. It could also mean that travellers need no longer remove liquids and electronic items for separate scanning, and may potentially allow for the 100ml limit on liquids to be lifted, according to the government.

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Johnson said: “We are home to the largest aviation network in Europe, with millions of people passing through our airports every year for work, holidays and family visits. We’re set to streamline those trips with the rollout of this ground-breaking technology – cutting down hassle for travellers and improving security measures. By making journeys through UK airports easier than ever, this new equipment will help boost the vital role our airports play in securing the UK’s position as a global hub for trade, tourism and investment.”

The technology is currently being trialled at the UK’s largest airport, Heathrow. The Department for Transport has mandated all major airports to implement 3D screening by no later than 1 December 2022.

Heathrow chief executive John Holland Kaye said: “We’re proud to be at the forefront of this new generation security equipment. This technology will transform the passenger experience, making air travel simple, streamlined and more secure through the UK’s only hub airport.”