Strict anti-terror restrictions on airline hand luggage could be eased within days.

Passengers using Gatwick are likely to be allowed to take bigger bags on board and possibly small quantities of liquid.

The Government is meeting members of the airline industry on Monday to discuss what can be done to make travel easier without compromising security.

Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander is then expected to announce a relaxation on the restrictions of what passengers can carry on planes.

Airport operator BAA, which runs Gatwick, expects the restrictions to be relaxed within 24 hours of the meeting.

A major clampdown on hand luggage was enforced on August 10 after an alleged plot was uncovered to blow up transatlantic flights using liquid chemicals.

No hand luggage was allowed except for essentials like money and passports, which people were made to carry in clear, plastic bags.

A few days later, restrictions on hand luggage were changed to allow bags measuring no more than 45cm in length, 35cm in width and 16cm in depth.

There are still bans in place on liquids, toiletries like toothpaste and baby food has to be tested by guardians to prove it is safe.

The restrictions have caused chaos in UK airports and BAA has been criticised for its handling of the situation.

A spokesman for the Department of Transport said it would not be able to comment on revised regulations until after next week's meeting.

He said: "The measures we introduced in August were in response to a very real and serious terror threat which continues.

"Since then the Department for Transport has been working closely with the aviation industry to see if there are any practical steps that can be taken to lessen the burden, while not compromising on security."

BAA has said that last month's terror alert cost the company £13 million in extra costs and lost sales.

Current security at Gatwick

  • Passengers are allowed one item of hand luggage no larger than 45cm long, 35cm high and 16cm deep
  • No drinks or liquid-based foods, cosmetics, toiletries, gels or pastes are allowed
  • Sharp items and cigarette lighters are banned
  • Baby food and milk is allowed if tested by the passenger
  • If travelling to anywhere other than the US you can take all items bought in the departure lounge into the airplane cabin
  • Extra restrictions are in place for transatlantic flights
  • For a full list of current restrictions, visit www.gatwickairport.co.uk