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security FAQ's

Please find links below to the latest information on Bristol International's security measures in accordance with the Department for Transport's updated regulations.

How many bags can I take through security, and what are the size restrictions? 

From 1st August 2008, Bristol International is able to relax the rule limiting one bag only through the Security Search Area.  Passengers are reminded however, that Airlines flying from the Airport have their own limitations on hand items carried onto the Aircraft.

Bristol International advise that it is the passengers responsibility to ensure that the number of bags presented at Security Search is compliant with their Airline's allowance - this is in order to avoid refusal of carriage at the boarding gate.

Cabin baggage must not exceed:                                             

  • a maximum length of 56 cm (approx 22 inches)
  • a maximum width of 45 cm (approx 18 inches)
  • a maximum depth of 25 cm (approx 10 inches)

Dimensions should include wheels, handles and side pockets etc

What am I permitted to pack in my luggage? 

Passengers are permitted to carry individual containers with less than 100ml of fluid. The containers must then be packed into one transparent re-sealable plastic bag of no more than 1 litre capacity. Only one plastic bag per passenger is allowed.

What is new?     What does not change?    

You must present all liquids to the screeners at security checkpoints for examination. 

You can still pack liquids in bags that you check in - the new rules only affect hand luggage. 

You must take off your jacket and/or coat. They will be screened separately. You may leave items in your jacket pocket whilst it is being screened.

You can still carry in your hand luggage medicines and dietary requirements, including baby foods, for use during the trip. You may be asked for proof that they are needed. 

You must remove laptop computers and other large electrical devices from your hand luggage. They will be screened separately. 

You can still buy liquids such as drinks and perfume in the retail outlets situated in the departure lounge of the airport. 

Liquid Guidelines

Security poster 

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What procedures should I expect at the security search point?

  • At the security search area, all laptops and large electrical items must be removed from the bag and placed in a tray to assist with x-ray screening.  
  • Pushchairs and walking aids are permitted but must be x-ray screened. Wheelchairs are permitted but will be thoroughly searched.
  • Each passenger is permitted to carry one musical instrument in its case (no other items are permitted to be in the case). All such items must be x-ray screened.
  • Passengers may be requested to remove their shoes at security check-points.
  • Passengers will be requested to remove coats/jackets at the security check-point.

What items am I permitted to purchase after security?

Please note that once through the security screening area passengers may purchase any items from the retail and catering outlets in the departure lounge as these items have been previously security screened and are deemed safe.

  • All purchases from the departure lounge may be taken on board. 

  • Customers may purchase liquids from the departure lounge including drinks, fragrance, cosmetics and toiletries and take them on board, including those traveling on Continental Airlines to New York.

NB:-Those passengers who are transiting through a hub (e.g. Schiphol or Newark) to a country within the EU must get their purchases sealed at purchase point. Those traveling through a hub airport and onward to a non-EU destination could risk having items removed at the hub airport. Please speak to a member of staff if you have any queries.

Further information


Bristol International will work hard to ensure that delays continue to be kept to a minimum. Passengers are advised to arrive early for their flights and proceed to check-in immediately so that they can be swiftly checked through these security measures and should be aware that each passenger may be hand searched and their footwear and all items they are carrying will be x-ray screened.

Bristol International would like to thank passengers for their continued patience and co-operation which has enabled the airport to operate as smoothly as possible over the last week.

For specific flight queries customers are advised to contact their Airline or Tour Operator directly