Security at airports with direct flights to the US is being stepped up after American officials warned of a "credible" terrorist threat.
The increased security checks will feature at UK airports, including Heathrow.
It is not thought the move will lead to delays like those experienced in 2006 following the uncovering of a plot involving liquid explosives in passenger drink bottles.
US officials have not specified what intelligence led to the new call for heightened security, nor which airports or countries will be affected.
However, Reuters has reported that security will be increased at European airports following intelligence that Al-Qaeda networks in Syria and Yemen are developing a bomb that could evade existing checks.
UK transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin has confirmed to the BBC that British airports are among those that will implement tightened security.
A UK Department for Transport spokesman said: "The 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."
A US Department of Homeland Security spokesman said: "Aviation remains an attractive target to global terrorists, who are consistently looking for ways to circumvent our aviation security measures.
"As always, DHS continues to adjust security measures to fit an ever evolving threat environment.
"Information about specific enhancements and locations are sensitive as we do not wish to divulge information about specific layers of security to those who would do us harm."
In May, Heathrow and Gatwick played down suggestions that new technology will lead to rules on liquids in hand luggage being relaxed soon (see news, May 7).
Graham Smith
