London Heathrow (LHR) is ditching its liquids rule for departing passengers across all terminals by January 23, 2026. Travelers can now keep liquids and large electronics in their bags. This change eliminates the need to remove items for screening, streamlining the security process. The shift is possible due to the full rollout of CT scanners, offering improved detection capabilities.

The new CT security scanning uses 3D imaging to analyze bag contents, unlike traditional X-ray systems. This reduces the need for passengers to unpack their belongings. Besides passenger convenience, the change aims to improve airport operations, reducing stoppages and variability. Heathrow also anticipates a reduction in plastic waste from eliminating the liquids bag requirement.

This move by Heathrow raises the question: Will the U.S. follow suit and end the 3-1-1 rule? While the TSA has shown a willingness to adapt security protocols, a nationwide change in the U.S. will depend on widespread CT scanner deployment, consistent checkpoint performance, and a phased rollout. Travelers connecting through LHR should still be mindful of the rules at their final destination.

For those flying through Heathrow, this is a welcome update. However, passengers returning to the U.S. or connecting through airports like JFK, LAX, or ORD should still follow the 3-1-1 rules unless they are certain about the screening procedures at their next checkpoint. The changes at LHR reflect the maturation of security technology and a move towards more efficient airport operations.