EU Airports: 100 ml Liquid Limit in Hand Baggage from September

Photo source: Tallinn Airport

Starting September 1, 2024, a number of EU airports will revert to the standard 100 ml limit for individual liquid containers in hand baggage.

According to the European Commission, the change will apply to airports using Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB) equipment, which currently allow passengers to carry liquid containers larger than 100 ml. Effective from the specified date, these airports will once again restrict liquid containers to a maximum of 100 ml.

Airports that already enforce the 100 ml limit or do not use EDSCB equipment will not be impacted by this update.

EDSCB equipment is currently in use at airports in Germany, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Malta, the Netherlands, Estonia, and Sweden.

The European Commission has indicated that the new restrictions are intended to be temporary.

“This precautionary measure is not in response to any new threat but addresses a temporary technical issue, undertaken in alignment with the EU’s international partners,” the Commission stated.

Airplane passenger guidelines

Passengers should adhere to the following rules for cabin baggage:

– Hand luggage: Passengers are allowed one piece of hand luggage with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm and a weight limit of 10 kg. Additionally, a smaller item such as a handbag, backpack, or laptop bag with dimensions up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm is permitted, provided it fits under the seat in front. It is advisable to verify with the airline for specific carry-on weight limits and allowed items, as policies may vary.

– Liquids: Liquids in the cabin, including aerosols, drinks, toothpaste, cosmetic creams, or gels, must be carried in a transparent plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre. Each container must not exceed 100 ml. Larger liquid containers must be placed in checked baggage. This restriction does not apply to medications and baby food.

Photo source: Tallinn Airport

– Duty-free liquids: Duty-free liquids purchased at airports or on airlines can be carried as hand luggage if they remain sealed in the security bag with a red border provided at the time of purchase. The security bag should not be opened until reaching the final destination. If security officers need to inspect the contents, and there is a connecting flight, inform them so the liquids can be resealed in a new security bag.

– Sharp objects: Sharp objects that could be used as weapons, such as corkscrews, knives, and certain-sized scissors, are not allowed in the cabin and should be packed in checked baggage.

– Prohibited items: Explosives and flammable items, including fireworks, aerosol spray paints, and other flammable or toxic substances like acids, are strictly prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage.