European airports are gradually lifting the "100 ml liquids" rule for hand luggage

Another era of inconvenience in the history of air travel is coming to an end: with the approval of the European Commission, a number of EU and UK airports are beginning to abolish the long-standing restriction — a maximum of 100 ml per container of liquid in hand luggage.

Why the rule was introduced and how it is changing

In many countries — both in the EU and the UK — this rule has been in effect since 2006 in response to the terrorist threat associated with liquid explosives. Since then, passengers have been required to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of no more than 100 ml, inside a transparent bag with a capacity of up to one liter.

Now, thanks to the introduction of modern computed tomography (CT) scanners, capable of three-dimensional analysis of the contents of hand luggage, many airports can safely lift this restriction. The new scanners allow faster and more accurate detection of potentially dangerous substances, without requiring laptops, tablets, and liquids to be removed from bags.

Where the restriction has already been lifted

United Kingdom: Birmingham and Edinburgh airports were the first to remove the limit, allowing up to 2 liters of liquids in hand luggage without removing electronics.

European Union: pilot programs have already been launched in several major airports:

Italy: Milan-Malpensa (terminal 1), Milan-Linate, Rome-Fiumicino. In Rome, the new rules were introduced on July 26, 2025 — up to 2 liters of liquids are allowed.

Netherlands: Amsterdam Schiphol.

Germany: Berlin-Brandenburg, Frankfurt (partially).

Spain: Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat.

Ireland: Dublin and Shannon.

Meanwhile, the vast majority of EU airports still enforce the 100 ml limit, as equipment upgrades are gradual and require significant investments.

What this means for passengers

Convenience and speed: it has become easier to carry baby formula, medicine, cosmetics — especially on long-haul flights or when traveling with children. Without the need to repackage into small bottles and transparent bags, throughput at security checkpoints increases.

Inconsistency of rules: it is important to check in advance whether the new rules apply at your departure and return airports. Non-compliance may result in wasted time or confiscation of items.

Non-mandatory adoption: the installation of CT scanners is a voluntary initiative of individual airports, not a mandatory requirement of the EU or UK. Major hubs, such as London Heathrow, have been forced to delay rapid implementation due to high costs (over £1 billion).

The introduction of computed tomography technology marks a gradual transition to more convenient and safer security procedures at European airports. Although the changes are being rolled out unevenly, they provide hope for the gradual abolition of the 100 ml rule. Travelers are advised to check the rules of their specific airports in advance.