Younger children can start using e-gates at UK airports

Accompanied children aged eight and nine can now use e-gates at UK airports and other points of re-entry.

The lowering of the age restriction kicked in on Wednesday (July 8) and applies to children who are at least 3ft 11ins.

The government has estimated the change will enable 1.5 million more children to use the e-gates with their families over the next year.

Previously children had to be at least 10 to use the technology.

Alex Norris MP, minister for border security and asylum, said: “Today’s change will make journeys easier for families with small children and reduce the hassle of travelling home after a holiday.   

“It will also free up more time for tourists to enjoy our fantastic country this summer and in the years ahead.”

The 13 airports in the UK with e-gates are Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted.