EU Airports Reintroduce 100ml Liquid Rule: What Travelers Need to Know

Starting September 1, travelers passing through any airport in the European Union must adhere to the 100ml liquid rule for carry-on luggage. This regulation, which requires all liquids, gels, and creams to be stored in containers of 100ml or less, is being reinstated due to delays in the deployment of advanced security scanners.

The EU had initially planned to phase out the 100ml rule with the introduction of new scanners. These machines would have allowed passengers to keep liquids, electronics, and toiletries in their bags during security checks. However, several setbacks, including high costs, installation challenges, and technical issues, have postponed this upgrade.

As a result, the European Commission has reinstated the 100ml rule across all 27 EU member states. This means that passengers must continue to place their liquids in a clear, resealable plastic bag and remove them from their carry-on luggage during security screening.

The reintroduction of this rule is expected to impact airports that have already installed the new scanners, as they will now need to revert to older security procedures. Airports in the UK, which had begun phasing out the 100ml restriction, will also be affected. Travelers should prepare for potential delays at security and plan accordingly.

While this measure is temporary, the European Commission has not provided a timeline for when the new scanners will be fully operational. Passengers are advised to stay informed about any updates and arrive early for their flights to ensure a smoother travel experience.

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