Edith Hejberg
Airports across Europe are preparing to lift this unpopular restriction thanks to new security technology.
For nearly two decades, EU passengers have had to carry liquids in containers no larger than 100 milliliters, all packed into a single resealable one-liter bag.
New CT Scanners Change the Game
The European Union has approved advanced computed tomography (CT) scanners, similar to those used in hospitals, that can detect liquid explosives with high accuracy.
Once fully installed, these scanners could allow passengers to carry larger bottles of shampoo, water, or even wine through security.
Romania Readies for the Switch
Romania’s 12 international airports are close to completing the software upgrades needed for the new scanners.
Officials expect the work to be finished by the first quarter of 2026. However, the rule change will only take effect at airports that have fully updated and recertified equipment.
Germany Moves Slowly but Steadily
Frankfurt Airport currently has 40 out of 190 screening lanes equipped with new CT scanners, with another 40 on the way.
Munich Airport is also making upgrades, though some software updates are being postponed until after the busy summer season.
Early Adopters Across the EU
Several major airports in Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Ireland have already started easing liquid restrictions.
Palma de Mallorca, Madrid-Barajas, and Barcelona-El Prat in Spain are among the first to deploy the technology across some inspection lanes.
Why the Rule Existed in the First Place
The 100ml limit was introduced in 2006 after UK authorities foiled a terrorist plot involving liquid explosives on flights from Heathrow Airport.
The new scanners are designed to detect those same threats without limiting how much liquid passengers can carry.
Airlines and Consumers Clash Over Carry-On Fees
While liquid restrictions may be easing, passengers still face battles over hand luggage fees.
Many low-cost carriers charge for anything beyond a small personal item, despite a 2014 European Court of Justice ruling that bans extra charges for reasonable-sized cabin bags.
EU Pushes for Free Small Cabin Bags
The European Parliament’s Transport Committee has proposed rules guaranteeing every passenger one small personal item and one piece of cabin luggage up to 7kg at no extra cost.
If approved, these rules would apply to all flights within and to the EU.
Low-Cost Airlines Push Back
Budget carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air warn that free cabin baggage rules would drive up ticket prices.
Consumer groups counter that current baggage fees are excessive, with some airlines charging up to €280 for oversized carry-ons.
Change Is Coming – But Not Overnight
Even with EU approval, installing new scanners and enforcing fair baggage rules will take time.
Travellers hoping to carry larger bottles of olive oil or wine home from their holidays will likely have to wait until at least 2026 for the new policies to be fully in place.
