Following a reported foiled terrorist plot on 10 August 2006 against
flights from the United Kingdom to the United States, aviation security
authorities around the world have enhanced security procedures at their
airports and limited what passengers can carry in hand luggage.
The United Kingdom's threat level is currently at "severe" (the
second highest threat level), indicating an attack is highly likely.
The United States threat level for flights originating in the United
Kingdom and bound for the United States is "Code Orange", indicating a
"high" risk of terrorist attacks. The threat level for all other
commercial aviation operating in the United States or destined for the
United States is also "Code Orange".
The web links below provide additional information and advice on
hand-luggage restrictions, security check procedures, duty free
purchases and packing guidelines for Australia, the United Kingdom, the
United States the European Union and Canada.
Australia
From 31 March 2007, passengers on international flights to and from
Australia will only be allowed to carry a small amount of liquids,
(including aerosols and gels) in their carry-on baggage. You can find
out more information at the Department of Transport and Regional Services.
United Kingdom
Information on security procedures in the UK, including details on restrictions on hand luggage, is available from the UK Department for Transport.
United States
Details of security requirements for flights bound for the United States and for US domestic flights are available from the US Transportation Security Administration.
European Union
Since November 2006, enhanced air passenger security rules in the
European Union limit what passengers can carry in hand luggage. The new
security rules also include more stringent security checks. The European Commission fact sheet
on aviation security provides details and updates. Some requirements
will also be applied by other European countries including for air
travel in Albania, Croatia, Iceland, Kosovo, Norway and Switzerland.
Canada
Information on new security measures for liquids, gels and aerosols introduced in November 2006 is available from the Transport Canada website.
As the enhanced airport security procedures are impacting on
international air travel worldwide, travellers should check with their
airline for advice on security requirements and observe all notices at
airports. Travellers should also consult the travel advice for the destinations they intend to travel to.
Australians can obtain emergency consular assistance by telephoning
the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on 1 300 555 135 (if
calling from within Australia) or (61 2) 6261 3305 (if calling from
overseas).
We encourage you to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register online or overseas in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate.
The information you provide will help us to contact you in an
emergency; whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a
family issue.
While every care has been taken in preparing this travel
information for travellers, neither the Australian Government nor its
agents or employees including any member of Australia's consular staff
abroad, can accept liability for injury, loss or damage arising in
respect of any statement contained therein.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
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