Heathrow Airport Issues Security Advice for Passengers Carrying Powders
Heathrow Airport has advised passengers that they may need to allow extra time for security screening if they are travelling with certain powdered items in their hand luggage. The clarification came in response to a customer inquiry on social media.
Passenger Inquiry Prompts Response
A passenger contacted Heathrow's team on X, asking: 'Heathrow Airport. Hi team, I will be flying to Sofia, Bulgaria in about two weeks time. Is it possible to bring a tin of ground coffee and magnesium supplement in a form of powder in my cabin bag? Please let me know.'
The airport replied: 'Food or powders should be packed into hold baggage where possible. Although these items are permitted in hand luggage (except some flights to the US), they can obstruct images on the x-ray machine, or may be mistaken for suspicious items – so putting them in the hold will help reduce the need for additional checks. Passengers who need to take these items on board should therefore allow extra time at security. For further information go to gov.uk.'
Official Guidance on Powders
According to GOV.UK, food items and powders in hand luggage can obstruct x-ray images, potentially requiring manual re-checking. To minimise delays, passengers are advised to place such items in hold luggage. Restrictions may also apply to liquids, lighters, frozen items, and sports equipment. Airport security staff have the final say on what is allowed through, even if items are normally permitted.
New CT Scanners at Heathrow
Heathrow has recently rolled out CT security scanners across all four terminals as part of a £1bn upgrade. The new technology allows passengers to leave liquids and laptops in their bags, speeding up the screening process and eliminating the need for plastic bags. Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye stated: 'Every Heathrow passenger can now leave their liquids and laptops in their bags at security as we become the largest airport in the world to roll out the latest security scanning technology. That means less time preparing for security and more time enjoying their journey – and millions fewer single-use plastic bags. This billion pound investment means our customers can be confident they will continue to have a great experience at Heathrow.'
Despite these advancements, passengers carrying powders are still advised to allow extra time or pack them in hold baggage to prevent potential delays.
