Once the new rules are officially in place, the 100ml liquid limit may also no longer apply. Heathrow Airport has already invested millions into the new technology, but now all airports across the UK will be required to change their systems by December 1, 2022.

Under the new guidelines, plane passengers will not be expected to place liquids like drinks, toiletries and cosmetics in plastic bags. The screening equipment will provide a detailed picture of a bag’s contents and allow images to be visually rotated and dissected.

The technology, which is similar to CT scanners used in hospitals, is expected to speed up the security process for hurried travellers and decrease the amount of plastic used in airports.

Announcing the new plans, Boris Johnson said the scanners would cut down on ‘hassle’ and improve security. He said: ‘By making journeys through UK airports easier than ever, this new equipment will help boost the vital role our airports play in securing the UK’s position as a global hub for trade, tourism and investment.

‘We are home to the largest aviation network in Europe, with millions of people passing through our airports every year for work, holidays and family visits. ‘We’re set to streamline those trips with the roll-out of this ground-breaking technology – cutting down hassle for travellers and improving security measures.’

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps added: ‘The new screening equipment will improve security and make the experience smoother and less stressful for passengers.

‘It could also mean an end to passengers having to use plastic bags or rationing what they take away with them.’ ‘As an outward looking global nation, our transport hubs are more important than ever, and investing in our security infrastructure means we are investing in our nation’s future.’

People travelling through UK airports are currently still required to remove their laptops and liquids from their cabin bags, with the screening equipment expected to be gradually rolled out over the next few years. Heathrow, which has spent £50 million on the computer tomography security scanners, is currently testing the technology.

Kate Nicholls, Chief Executive of UKHospitality and Chair of the Tourism Alliance said: ‘The new technology being rolled out should make for a smoother, more enjoyable passenger experience and will bolster the UK’s international reputation as traveller-friendly.

‘Having passed through security more quickly, and with less hassle, passengers will be able to relax and begin to enjoy their holiday sooner.’

Heathrow CEO, John Holland Kaye, added: ‘We’re proud to be at the forefront of this new generation security equipment. This technology will transform the passenger experience, making air travel simple, streamlined and more secure through the UK’s only hub airport.’