EU sets new rules for carry-on bags starting September 1 at airports

Published: 28 August 2024

Agencies
London

Restrictions on liquids in hand luggage will be reintroduced at European Union airports from September 1. The temporary measures will require all liquids, gels, pastes and aerosols to be less than 100ml and placed in a clear plastic bag before passing through airport security at any EU airport.

This decision marks a reversal of the recent relaxation of liquid restrictions at airports that had installed new-generation C3 scanning equipment for hand luggage.

The new regulations will apply uniformly across EU airports, including those with Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB), which had previously allowed travellers to carry liquids exceeding 100ml.

At present, travellers passing through terminals equipped with Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB) have been permitted to carry liquids in quantities exceeding 100ml. However, it has been decided to abolish this exception until all airports in Europe are equipped with the same screening device.

The effectiveness of current scanners at airports was called into question after a technical report from the European Civil Aviation Conference noted the software used in these scanners could not guarantee their reliability for containers holding more than 330ml.

From the 1st of September onward, the familiar 100ml rule will be reinstated for all passengers. The EU has stated that this uniform approach is required for the time being, but future modifications could be on the cards as airport security technologies advance.

In addition to the liquid restrictions, the outlined guidelines for cabin luggage are:

• Weight limit: 10kg maximum
• Allowance: One cabin bag plus one small personal item
• Size restrictions: Cabin bag dimensions (including handles and wheels) must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20cm, while personal items should be no larger than 40 x 30 x 15cm

The personal item, such as a handbag, backpack, or laptop bag, must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.