EU Approves New Baggage Regulations Allowing More Liquids on Flights

The European Union has paved the way for new baggage regulations that will allow air travelers to carry larger amounts of liquids in their hand luggage. This change comes after the approval of advanced scanners capable of identifying liquid explosives, which could enhance security measures at airports.

Previously, passengers faced strict limitations, allowing only containers of up to 100 milliliters of liquids in their carry-on baggage. However, with the introduction of sophisticated scanning technology, the EU has indicated that these restrictions may soon be lifted, although the transition may take some time across various airports.

In Germany, for instance, the implementation of these new regulations is expected to be gradual. While the latest scanners have been installed at multiple airports, including Frankfurt, the full deployment of this technology is still in progress. Currently, there are about 40 upgraded scanning lanes operational in Frankfurt, with an additional 40 devices on order, but travelers will not yet notice any changes to the existing liquid restrictions.

At Munich Airport, the situation is similar. Although a significant number of scanners are available, technical adjustments and software updates are necessary before they can be fully utilized. Due to the influx of passengers during the busy summer holiday season, these modifications have been postponed, meaning that the existing rules limiting liquids to 100 milliliters will remain in effect.

The newly approved scanners utilize computer tomography (CT) technology, which provides enhanced imaging capabilities. These devices generate detailed, three-dimensional representations of the contents of luggage, enabling security personnel to identify both liquid and solid explosives more effectively.

The restrictions on liquids were initially enforced in 2006 following security concerns about the potential for liquid explosives to be used on flights. The introduction of the new scanning technology is a significant step towards modernizing airport security protocols, but the transition will require substantial investment and infrastructural changes.

The full-scale integration of these advanced scanning systems across all airport security checkpoints presents logistical challenges, including the need for physical modifications to existing facilities. Funding for these upgrades may come from multiple sources, including airport operators and government security agencies.

While the new technology holds promise for more relaxed liquid regulations, the EU's decision is contingent on the successful and widespread implementation of these scanners, as well as ongoing evaluations of their effectiveness. Until then, passengers will need to adhere to the established guidelines regarding liquid carry-ons.