Holidaymakers and business travellers are being urged by Abta to prepare for trips by following existing rules for airport security and hand luggage.
The advice follows the extension of the deadline for some airports to implement next-generation scanners – which would end the 100ml liquid rule for hand luggage and allow electronic devices to remain in luggage when going through the security process.
The original deadline was June 1, but many UK airports will not be fully ready in time.
Preparing for travel with the existing rules in mind would avoid any inconvenience and unnecessary delays when going through security given the lack of consistency across UK airports, according to Abta.
Travellers should also check the rules for their return airport.
“Even if a UK airport does have the new scanners in full operation, the traveller’s destination airport might not, meaning they will be subject to the 100ml liquid rules when taking their return flight,” Abta said.
Public affairs director Luke Petherbridge said: “What travellers need now, as we head towards the peak months for overseas travel, is clarity about what to do when going through airport security.
“When fully implemented, the new airport scanners will make things faster and strengthen security.
“However, the recent extensions from the government show that there is still some way to go before the new security rules are consistently in place across UK airports.
“With that in mind, our best advice is to prepare for your travels with the existing rules in mind.
“That way, you’ll be ready to comply whatever the scenario, avoiding any unnecessary delays through security and any difficulties when returning from your destination.
“You can also check with your airport in advance – and we’d also recommend checking with your return airport too.”