Travelers in European airports have been left disappointed as they are being hit with strict cabin bag rules that have been reintroduced. Before, some EU destinations had scrapped the 100ml limit for liquids that can be carried in hand luggage, but now all airports in Europe have to bring it back. The 100ml limit concerns all liquids, including sun cream, perfume, and alcohol. Airline passengers had grown accustomed to strict restrictions on liquids, pastes, and gels, which have to be placed in a clear plastic bag. Scanning machines using CT X-ray technology make it possible for larger volumes of liquids to go through, and laptops to stay in bags.
Most EU airports have not yet put the new scanning machines in place, but some airport authorities, for example in Rome and Amsterdam, had eased their rules. The Airports Council International is looking to install these scanners in several countries, including Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. The EU has reintroduced the 100ml limit to address a technical issue with the new equipment, which needs to be resolved. ACI Europe stated that the restriction was a “setback for the passenger experience and a blow to major investments made by airports.”
There were previously predictions that all of the UK’s airports would eliminate the hand luggage liquid limits this year. However, the previous Conservative government required scanning equipment to be installed in security lanes by June 2024. Some regional airports were able to meet that deadline while others, such as Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester, were given more time due to construction work or supply chain problems. The Department for Transport then announced in mid-June that 100ml liquids limits should be reintroduced. However, no end date for the 100ml limit has been given, so it is unclear how long the situation will last.
The European Commission announced in July that the maximum size allowed for individual liquid containers would revert back to 100ml as there was a temporary technical issue with the new generation of scanners. It said no date was given for when the rules would be relaxed. The Department for Transport reports that it is working with manufacturers, airports and international partners with this, but for the foreseeable future, it is best for passengers to assume that the old 100ml limitations apply to check the rules for departure and return before travelling
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