Britain is relaxing restrictions on carry-on baggage on Friday, allowing musical instruments and larger bags to be taken aboard aircraft, the government announced.
Severe limits on carry-on baggage were imposed after police announced on Aug. 10 that they had broken up an alleged plot to bring down U.S.-bound aircraft with liquid-based explosives.
The Department for Transport said Thursday that one carry-on bag would be allowed, with a new larger maximum size of 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. Previously the maximum was 45cm x 35cm x 16cm.
Musicians with instruments too big to go into hand luggage will be able to take them on board after the instrument has been screened.
"It is a victory for common sense. The government can now go back to saying great things about the creative economy," said Horace Trubridge , assistant general secretary of the Musicians Union.
There was no change in restrictions on liquids. Passengers may only carry on essential medicines in quantities sufficent for the flight, and baby milk or baby formula, which must be tasted by an adult in the presence of security workers.
"We will never compromise on the safety of passengers, but it is right that we continually strive to strike the right balance between properly robust security and arrangements which minimize the burden on passengers and business," the department said in a statement.
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