Next-Gen Airport Security Technology Coming to Major Hubs

New Screening Technology Will Transform Airport Security

Major airports across Europe and North America are rolling out next-generation CT (Computed Tomography) scanning equipment that promises to revolutionise the security checkpoint experience.

What Is Changing

The new CT scanners create detailed 3D images of bag contents, allowing security officers to digitally rotate and inspect items without physically opening bags. For passengers, this means:

• No more removing laptops from bags
• No more removing liquids from bags (at airports with new scanners)
• Faster screening — bags pass through in one scan
• Fewer bag searches — better imaging reduces false positives

Airports Leading the Rollout

Several airports have already begun installing the new technology:

• London Heathrow: Terminal 2 FastTrack lanes equipped, full rollout by late 2026
• Amsterdam Schiphol: 50% of lanes upgraded
• Shannon: First Irish airport to go fully CT
• Munich: All terminals equipped by mid-2026

Impact on FastTrack

The new scanners are particularly beneficial for FastTrack passengers. Since FastTrack lanes are often the first to receive new technology, premium passengers enjoy the full benefit of not unpacking electronics or liquids.

However, airports caution that the transition period may cause temporary disruptions as staff adapt to the new systems. During rollout, some lanes may have reduced throughput.

The End of the Liquids Rule?

The EU has indicated that once CT scanning is universal, the 100ml liquid restriction could be relaxed. However, no firm timeline has been set, and individual countries may implement changes at different rates.

What Travellers Should Do Now

For the time being, continue following current liquid and electronics rules unless your specific airport has confirmed the change. Check the airport website before you fly for the latest security requirements.