UK airport security stepped up

Security is being stepped up at all British airports after United States officials raised fears that terrorists in Syria and Yemen are working together to develop explosives, which could be smuggled onto planes.

The Department for Transport said the extra security measures were not expected to cause "significant disruption" to passengers.

A spokesman for the DFT said: "The UK Government keeps aviation security under constant review in conjunction with international partners and the aviation industry. 

“We have taken the decision to step up some of our aviation security measures. For obvious reasons we will not be commenting in detail on those changes.

“The majority of passengers should not experience significant disruption. There will be no change to the threat level, which remains at substantial.

“The safety and security of the public is our paramount concern. The UK has some of the most robust aviation security measures and we will continue to take all the steps necessary to ensure that public safety is maintained.”

The US department of homeland security said enhanced security measures would be implemented in the next few days at certain overseas airports with direct flights to the United Sgtates. Jeh Johnson, department secretary, said: “We will work to ensure these necessary steps pose as few disruptions to travellers as possible."

It is thought the extra security measures could include increased passenger screening and tighter scrutiny of footwear and electronic equipment.