WHAT HAS (ALREADY) CHANGED AND WILL CHANGE FOR AIR TRAVELLERS IN THE NEAR FUTURE REGARDING AIRPORT SECURITY LIMITS?

When and why the 100ML was introduced:

In light of the devastating events of September 11, airport security has remained a paramount concern. The aviation industry responded by implementing a range of measures aimed at enhancing security and stopping potential threats, with the 100ml liquid rule emerging as one of the notable restrictions. However, as technology propels forward and the aviation sector evolves, it is imperative to reassess the efficacy and relevance of this regulation.

In August 2006, a plot of grave concern came to light as British security successfully exposed a scheme intended to smuggle improvised explosive devices onto multiple (around 10) transatlantic flights. The sinister plan involved utilizing hydrogen peroxide as a highly volatile explosive material. To avoid arousing suspicion during security checks, the perpetrators planned to conceal the hydrogen peroxide within ordinary beverage containers. Once aboard the flights, they intended to assemble these components into deadly explosive devices. The magnitude of this discovery underscores the ongoing importance of stringent security measures in safeguarding the safety of air travel. For this reason the 100ml limit rule was implemented. The aim was to curb the potential for similar attacks by restricting the quantity of liquids passengers could carry on board (while for checked-in bags no limit was introduced). Consequently, travelers have since been obliged to transport liquids in transparent, compact and resealable plastic bags, with each individual container strictly limited to 100ml.

New technology means more enjoyable travel experience:

The 100ml liquid rule continued to be a source of stress and frustration for passengers as they needed to purchase smaller sized toiletries and pack them properly according to the limitations described above. However, as advanced scanning technology for liquids emerges, it made (and will make) the 100ml liquid rule soon obsolete.

Years of dedicated technological developments have culminated in the availability of advanced screening technology specifically designed for liquids. This groundbreaking innovation allows travelers to leave liquids (up to 2 liters) in their bags, along with their electrical items, which won’t be needed to be put out and separately in a tray. Those machines are 3D scanners (using CT Technology) – also employed in hospitals, enabling security personnel to effortlessly identify any potentially hazardous substances.

An environment friendly technology

This new technology reduces also the amount of waste generated by airport security checks – not only by eliminating the waste and usage of clear, plastic bags, but also avoiding the wastage of a lot of bottles full of liquids that daily pile up before a security check (if passengers forget the restrictions and carry larger liquid items with them).

Read also: 5 Wild Flight Disruption Stories That will Leave You Speechless

Which airports are already using it and which ones will follow

Certain airports have already taken the lead in implementing this transformative technology. London City Airport in the UK, and Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands have embraced the new scanning systems, as well as Rome Fiumicino Airport (T1), Malpensa (T1) and Linate Airport in Italy. The technology has already been used also by US airports, such as Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson and Chicago’s O’Hare, for a number of years. As we move forward, it is expected that the adoption of this technology will become more widespread. Also in Germany, the Munich Airport is currently undertaking the CT scanner project, aiming for completion in autumn 2024.