What You Can (and Can’t) Bring in Your Carry-On Luggage Starting September 1, 2024

Changes to Hand Luggage Regulations in European Airports

Starting from September 1, significant changes will take effect in European airports regarding hand luggage regulations.
This marks a step back compared to last year’s regulations.

Just a year ago, several major European airports lifted the 100ml limit on liquid items carried on board, thanks to the introduction of new C3 scanners.
These advanced devices can differentiate the contents of hand luggage and detect potential explosives.

The Return of the 100ml Liquid Limit

However, due to recent security concerns, the European Commission announced a reintroduction of the 100ml liquids limit, alongside the requirement to separate these liquids from other items in the suitcase.
Travelers will also need to remove laptops and tablets during security checks.

Major airports across Europe had initially adopted these more lenient policies, including Italy’s Milan Malpensa, Linate, and Rome Fiumicino, which were equipped with C3 scanners.
Unfortunately, the return to stricter regulations is imminent.

Reasons for the Policy Change

The decision stems from safety lapses observed at UK airports, including London City and Birmingham, which prompted a reassessment of liquid detection capabilities in the C3 scanners.
The devices will undergo a comprehensive upgrade to meet enhanced explosive detection standards.

This regression in policy is considered temporary.
Once the necessary updates and checks are completed, airports with updated C3 scanners can expect to see the return of the previous, more relaxed liquids policy.

Impact on Airports and Travelers

The news has been met with discontent by airports that invested heavily in C3 scanners.
They now face reverting to outdated protocols, which also necessitates hiring more security personnel to manage increased checks.

This reversion to older security measures not only represents a financial burden for airports but also complicates the traveling experience for fliers.
Hence, travelers should remember that from September 1, they will need to pack liquids strictly within the 100ml limit, stored in a clear, resealable bag to present at security checks.

With a history rooted in security concerns dating back to 2006, when the liquid limit was introduced in response to potential terrorist threats, this policy shift underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining air travel safety.
For further information, you can read about more on aviation safety regulations here.