Quick answer
Liquids stay in your bag and no plastic bag is needed, but each container must be 100ml or less, with the volume visible on the label. Laptops, tablets and large electronics also stay in the bag. Smart watches go in the tray.
Why the rule changed back
London City dropped the 100ml limit when its CT scanners came in, in April 2023 (news report), then the Department for Transport issued a directive to airports with these next generation checkpoints. From 9 June 2024, 100ml limits on liquids were reintroduced, while passengers could keep liquids and large electronics in hand luggage. In October 2026 the airport's site still says to make sure liquids are 100ml or less. Airport security page; airport notice.
- Liquids
- Up to 100ml per container, left in your bag
- Electronics
- Leave laptops, tablets and other devices in the bag; charge them, as you may need to show they power on
- Smart watches
- In the tray; other watches can stay on
- Lighters
- One per person, carried on you
- Medicines
- Essential liquid medicines over 100ml need a prescription or a letter from a medical practitioner
- Baby food and milk
- Enough for the journey is allowed; hot water is available in the terminal
- Camera film
- Declare it before it goes through the CT scanner
Source: airport security and baggage page; GOV.UK hand luggage rules.
Bag sizes
The airport limits each hand baggage item to 56 x 45 x 25 cm, including wheels and handles, and each checked item to 32 kg. Your airline's own allowance may be smaller, so check it. Airport FAQs.
Travelling with children
Remove children from buggies for screening; small booster seats can go through, car seats must be checked in. From 8 July 2026, children aged 8 and 9 of eligible nationalities can use e-Gates with an adult if they are at least 120 cm tall. Airport family page; UK Border Force page.
Questions travelers ask
Is the 100ml liquids rule in force at London City Airport?
Yes. Each liquid must be 100ml or less. Thanks to CT scanners you can leave liquids and laptops in your bag, and no plastic bag is needed.
How long does security take at London City?
The airport says about 3 minutes, and about 20 minutes from entry to gate.
Sources
Last checked 12 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Details at the airport change often; the airport's website and your airline have the final word.