According to the Department for Transport (DfT), the new scanners will provide security personnel better images of cabin baggage, meaning passengers may soon be able to keep liquids and electrical equipment such as laptops in their cabin baggage while it is screened.

Once the new scanners are introduced, the 100ml liquid limit may no longer apply, the DfT has said.

All major UK airports will be required by the DfT to have the technology in place by 1 December 2022.

Prime minister Boris Johnson said the new technology would cut down hassle for travellers, improve security standards and make journeys through UK airports “easier than ever”.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said the new scanners would likely also end the practice of passengers placing liquids in plastic bags for security and having to “ration” what they take.

The scanners are currently being trialled at Heathrow before they are rolled out to other UK airports.

Heathrow chief executive 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.”