I think a few posts ago hit the nail on the head for me. The complete inconsistency of it all in the U.K. what is allowed at one airport is not at another all at the discretion of the local managers.
we all know that Manchester is probably the worst in the U.K. by a country mile. I’ve operated and pax’s out of there and it’s just a truly awful experience. The massive row of bags being pulled and the absolutely massive queue to get them back. Being shouted at by the operators and then the smug grin when they “catch you out”. Manchester is not a safer airport because they have stricter rules.
Gatwick and Heathrow are an absolute joy by comparison.
TSA in the USA are brilliant. If you’re operating everything stays in the bag and you’re whisked through. No liquid or electronic issues And it seems to be the same rules at every airport. The one time I’ve had to be searched the operative was courteous to the point of being slightly embarrassed he had to search my waist band.