Southend Lifts Liquid Limits as New Scanners Go Live

London Southend Airport has introduced C3 security equipment, allowing liquids of up to two litres to remain inside cabin baggage. The previous 100ml rule no longer applies at this airport. Electronic devices, including laptops and tablets, can also stay in bags during screening, removing the need to separate them into trays at the checkpoint.

The system uses advanced imaging to examine the contents of cabin baggage in detail, reducing the need for manual checks. At the same time, all departing passengers are screened using body scanners. The airport says the upgrade forms part of ongoing improvements to its security infrastructure and terminal facilities.

A spokesperson for the Department for Transport noted that passenger screening continues to develop as new technology becomes available. The introduction of C3 scanners is intended to support efficient checks while maintaining safety standards. As other airports may still operate under different liquid restrictions, passengers flying back to the UK are advised to check the rules at their departure airport in advance.

What changes at Southend security:

• Liquids up to two litres permitted in cabin baggage
• Laptops and tablets remain inside bags
• Passenger checks conducted with body scanners
• Detailed 3D imaging of cabin baggage during screening

This replaces the long-standing 100ml rule at Southend, marking a clear change in how hand luggage is checked at the security point.

Together, these measures reduce the number of items that need to be handled at security. The update coincides with the airport’s expanding 2026 schedule, which includes new routes to Ibiza, Jersey, Barcelona and Munich. With direct rail services linking the terminal to central London and consistently positive passenger feedback, Southend continues to position itself as a straightforward option for those seeking an alternative to the capital’s larger airports.