Whatever we feel about Boris Johnson becoming prime minister, his latest announcement on the changing security process of the UK’s airports is one we’re pretty delighted to hear. 

Earlier this year it was revealed that Heathrow Airport is working to improve and streamline its security system by bringing in technology that means you no longer need to pack your liquids into a single plastic bag. Now, the government has said that all UK airports are to do the same, setting a deadline of December 2020. 

That’s right: these plans mean not only will we no longer be caught squatting on the airport floor, desperately trying to cram our make-up into a fiddly plastic bag, but potentially the 100ml liquid rule will be ditched altogether which would be fantastic news for our on holiday skincare routine. 

How? Well, airports are planning on investing (£50m in Heathrow’s case) in CT scanners to make the security process easier. If the term CT scanners rings a bell, it’s because this type of equipment – also known as computed tomography scanners – are already used in hospitals to scan patients.

Used on hand luggage, these CT devices will produce a far more detailed scan, which will allow security staff to check bags without the need for the removal of liquids or electronic devices (you will be able to leave your laptop in your bag, too).

Without the need for plastic bags (and travel bottles) airports will be contributing to the UK’s effort to cut down on single use plastic, making the decision an eco-friendly one. 

Speaking about the advancements, Johnson said: “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.”

Heathrow’s chief operations officer, Chris Garton added to BBC News: “This cutting-edge equipment will not only keep the airport safe with the latest technology, but will mean that our future passengers can keep their focus on getting on with their journeys and spend less time preparing for security screening.”

Heathrow is the first airport in the UK to implement the technology, having trialed it since 2017, but there are several airports in Europe that have been using it for a while, including Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. And members of the Stylist.co.uk team who have been through the Dutch security systems there can attest that the airport experience is darn better for it. 

Images: Getty