Liquids & Essential Medicines

The definition of liquids includes gels, pastes, lotions, liquids/solid mixtures and pressurised containers, eg toothpaste, hair gel, drinks, soups, syrups, perfume, deodorant, shaving foam, aerosols etc.

All liquids shall be presented at the search point for examination.

Liquid will be allowed through search only if it:

a) is in a container with a capacity no greater than 100ml (ie 20cmx20cm or equivalent) and that any container is carried within one transparent re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity not exceeding 1 litre (contents must fit comfortably when the bag is closed)

b) is carried by a crew member who has bought the liquid on an EC carrier or airside beyond the security check at an EC airport, provided that the liquid is carried in a bag that is tamper-evident and displays satisfactory proof that the liquid was bought on the day on an EC carrier or airside beyond the boarding pass check at an EC airport; or is carried by a crew member who has bought the liquid in the restricted zone of an EC airport; or

c) is an Essential medicines in liquid form sufficient for the trip (e.g. diabetic kit), as long as they are verified as authentic in accordance with Department for Transport guidance

Liquids bought at a UK airport after the search point (ie Duty Free) continue to be permitted on board an aircraft; and (ii) liquids in containers of more than 100ml capacity can of course be carried in hold baggage

Essential Medicines

The crewmember will determine whether a medicine is essential for their trip.

DfT definition of essential liquid medicine:

• for prescription - that which is required to be taken at regular intervals which would require a dose during their trip (ie until you return home).
• for non-prescription - should really go in hold, however if flight crew deems it essential it is verified as appropriate in one of following order - test strip / taste / pharmacist / skin test etc.

If the medicine is less than 100ml total and it is in 1 litre bag then it is screened as per guidance by x-ray and if there is concern it is tested or it may be picked at random for testing. Over 100mls and the medicine will need to be verified (tasted).

There will be a procedure to undertake some testing of liquids at random and where there is a concern as to its status.

Ultimately, the decision to allow essential liquid medicines to pass through the search point lies with the Aerodrome Manager, as with all items carried.