New Hand Luggage Rule: These Airports Relax 100ml Limit

For the first time since 2006, passengers at British airports are allowed to transport larger quantities of liquids in their hand luggage again.

After 19 years, the well-known 100ml limit for liquids in hand luggage has been lifted at the British airports of Edinburgh and Birmingham. Both airports have installed modern security technology that now allows larger quantities. Travelers can now take liquid containers of up to two liters through security control – without having to pack them separately in plastic bags.

The rule was originally introduced following a foiled attack attempt in 2006. At that time, a group planned to build explosives from liquids on board aircraft. As a result, the allowance was limited to 100 milliliters per container – a rule that became standard worldwide and has since been rarely relaxed.

New scanners to enhance security and comfort

The relaxation is possible because the airports have switched to so-called CT scanners. These devices, originally from the medical field, analyze the contents of luggage three-dimensionally and detect potential hazardous substances more precisely than conventional X-ray technology. This also eliminates the previously common requirement to remove laptops or liquids from luggage.

Caution on the return journey: Rules are not the same everywhere

Despite the innovation, caution is advised. The British government emphasizes that not all airports are equipped with the new technology yet. Also outside the UK – for example, in the EU or the Schengen area – the 100ml rule still applies in many places. Passengers should therefore always inform themselves about the respective security requirements before traveling. Especially on the return flight, this can otherwise lead to delays or problems at the control.

Other airports like Bristol, London City, or Newcastle are planning similar changes. In London Heathrow or Manchester, however, the old technology remains partially in use. The reason for this is upcoming renovations or lack of approvals.

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.