The new plans are reportedly being discussed in Washington, with Whitehall set to see “transatlantic passengers clearing immigration formalities before boarding an aircraft", according to reports in the Sunday Telegraph.

Both Manchester and Edinburgh airports are said to be interested in joining the scheme, although Gatwick airport has “no plans” to participate.

Heathrow bosses are also understood to have turned down the idea due to the practicalities in bringing immigration officers to the country.

The proposals would also come at a cost - airlines could be forced to pay for US security staff and their families, to live in the UK and would in turn likely pass these costs onto passengers travelling to the US from the UK.

British travellers would also “likely” be asked to arrive for flights earlier to undergo questioning by US security along with the usual airport checks, the Sunday Telegraph said.

A Home Office spokesperson told the newspaper that discussions were ongoing with the US, however the new plans, which could take five years to put in place, would also require approval by the UK government.

A spokesperson for the Airport Operators Association added: “Airports are always looking for ways to improve the service we offer passengers and pre-clearing US immigration in the UK is one such possibility.

“However, there are a number of practical considerations on both the UK and US side that need further work to make it a reality. There are some who have misgivings about the US wanting to exercise its powers on EU soil.”

The US already has special immigration checks in six countries around the world, with more than 600 law enforcement officers stationed at 15 locations.