Glide through flight security

Since the terrorist attacks on 11 September, there has been a global step-up in airport security. Holidaymakers should allow extra time for checking-in and passing through security points this summer or else risk the very real possibility of missing flights.

Enhanced security means more body and bag searches at X-ray areas, random searches of hand luggage at check-in with passengers taken aside to have bags scanned and shoe inspections to check for hidden explosives.

The biggest queues can be expected on long-haul flights, particularly to the United States. Airport officials advise checking-in two to three hours before departure. Those flying to Europe or within the UK are recommended to allow at least an hour.

The rules have changed and sharp items are no longer allowed in hand luggage. Pack any of the items from this checklist into your suitcase instead:

Scissors
Tweezers
Cutlery
Metal nail files
Razor blades
Penknives
Knitting needles
Darts
Metal afro-combs
Hypodermic needles (unless for medical reasons)
Toy or replica guns
Catapults
Tools
Sporting bats
Snooker and pool cues

Cigarette lighters are still allowed in hand luggage here - but travellers report this is not the case in the US. So leave the Zippo at home.

Any banned item found will be confiscated and cannot be returned. Put a stamped selfaddressed padded envelope in your hand-luggage just in case - anything confiscated can be posted back to you.