Airports across Europe will implement new hand luggage regulations from 1 September 2024, Airports Council International (ACI) Europe has announced.
This temporary measure will affect passengers transiting through several airports on the continent, especially those equipped with the advanced C3 scanners.
Details of the new regulations
Previously, passengers could carry liquids without restrictions in their carry-on luggage and keep them alongside electronic devices such as laptops.
However, with the entry into force of the new regulation, only liquids in containers of up to 100 ml will be allowed, including aerosols and gels. This restriction will apply in all airports that use C3 scanners, recognised for their high detection capacity.
Reasons behind the measure
The ACI explained that the implementation of this measure seeks to protect the technology of C3 scanners, whose acquisition and maintenance costs are significantly higher than those of traditional machines. Airports that adopted this technology without restrictions have faced operational and financial difficulties, which has led to the need for this regulation.
Affected airports
The new rule will affect several airports in Italy, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands and Sweden, as well as six smaller airports in the United Kingdom, the Schengen News platform reported.
Increase in travel to Europe
Travel to Europe has seen a significant uptick following the coronavirus pandemic. In 2023, Schengen visa applications increased by 40% compared to the previous year, reaching more than 10 million requests. Italy, in particular, has become one of the most recommended destinations during the summer months, second only to Spain, thanks to its affordable travel and accommodation costs.
Reactions and expectations
The new restrictions have generated mixed reactions among travellers. The measure, although temporary, seeks to balance the operational and financial sustainability of airports that have invested in advanced scanning technology. The regulations are expected to remain in place while their impact on the efficiency and safety of European airports is assessed.
For more information on these new regulations, passengers can consult the official statement from Airports Council International in Europe.
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