Airports across the European Union have reintroduced the 100 mL liquid limit as part of new EU hand baggage rules, following a directive from the European Commission. This decision comes after a period where some airports, including those in Ireland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Sweden, had lifted the restriction due to the installation of advanced Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB), also known as C3 scanners.
Effective Date and Scope
The reimposition of the 100 mL rule, effective from September 1, affects all EU member states and extends to Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. This measure is described as a “precautionary step” and is not related to any new security threat; it addresses a temporary technical issue with the latest scanning equipment.
European Commission Statement
“The restoration of the 100ml limit is necessary while we address the technical issues with certain models of C3 scanners,” said a European Commission spokesperson. “The duration of this reimplementation will be determined once the technical problems are resolved.”
Impact in the UK
The UK government reinstated the 100ml limit in June, impacting six airports nationwide. Gary McLean, Managing Director of Dublin Airport, commented, “With the ongoing roll-out of new C3 scanners at Dublin Airport, the guidance for passengers will vary depending on the terminal they are departing from. The temporary return to the 100ml rule aligns with the European Commission’s latest directive.”
Previous Changes and Current Reversion
Before this change, advancements in CT scanner technology had allowed airports to permit up to 330 milliliters of liquids in hand luggage, with a total allowance of up to two liters. Passengers were no longer required to remove liquids from their bags at security checks.
However, the European Commission’s decision reverts to the stricter 100 ml limit, which applies to all airports regardless of whether they use older X-ray technology or modern CT scanners. Notably, passengers can still keep liquids in their bags at airports with advanced CT scanners, such as Hamburg, provided they adhere to the 100ml limit.
Exemptions and Airline Policies
Exemptions from the 100 ml rule continue to apply for medications and baby food. However, airlines may have varying policies regarding the carriage of baby food, particularly if a baby is not traveling.
Response to Technical Issues
This regulatory adjustment responds to issues identified in specific CT scanner models, as the aviation portal Aerotelegraph reported. Despite some misinformation about changes to European carry-on baggage rules, the European Commission has confirmed that no new regulations are being introduced.
A spokesperson for the Commission clarified, “There is no forthcoming EU regulation altering hand luggage regulations. We are, however, working on industry standards for cabin baggage dimensions, as requested by former Transport Commissioner Vălean.”
Future Developments
Currently, airlines have discrepancies regarding airport baggage rules. Some airlines permit small-wheeled suitcases and handbags as part of their allowance, while others restrict passengers to a single item. The European Commission is anticipating updates on the development of common standards for cabin baggage and plans to organize a follow-up workshop in the autumn.
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