Airports across the world are gradually reducing or eliminating restrictions on carrying liquids on planes with new rules thanks to the implementation of advanced technologies such as computer tomography (CT). This allows passengers to carry liquids with a capacity of more than 100 ml on the plane. Currently, the main European and world airports that have adopted these technologies include Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate and Rome Fiumicino in Italy. Let’s find out more.
How many 100ml bottles can you take on the plane?
Up until now, hand luggage rules regarding travelling with liquids generally allow passengers to carry bottles of liquids with a maximum capacity of 100ml each. However, the total number of bottles that can be carried depends on the maximum capacity of the transparent resealable plastic bag, which must not exceed 1 litre, i.e. no more than 10 100ml bottles.
Liquids on planes: the new 2024 rules for Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa and Milan Linate
Since 2006, following terrorist attacks, restrictions have been in force when it comes to the transport of liquids by air, limiting the quantity to 100 millilitres per container.
Some items have been subject to restrictions, such as drinks, creams, perfumes, gels, and the like, while others are not subject to major limitations, such as solid lipsticks, talcum powder, specific foods prescribed by a doctor, prescription medicines, and sealed human ashes.
However, this is no longer be the case in some airports, as technology is advancing with the introduction of CT scanners at airports, already used in the medical field. These scanners offer 3D imaging of luggage, surpassing current 2D methods. They rotate images 360 degrees, zoom in for detailed analysis, and use advanced algorithms to detect explosives, including liquids. Unlike 2D scanners, CT scanners can identify specific liquids and provide enhanced views of electronics, aided by AI.
Therefore, these scanners revolutionise security screening by allowing more accurate baggage analysis and the introduction of liquids in aircraft with new rules in 2024.
The CT scanner revolution in airports across the world
The scanners use computed tomography to create three-dimensional images of baggage contents, allowing detailed and rapid analysis of items intended for air transport through security checks and check-in.
This technology allows you to precisely and promptly identify potential threats such as explosives or weapons, offering an unprecedented level of security during airport operations. This allows travelers to carry with them any quantity of liquid , which is not dangerous, without being stopped at security checks.
Airports where rules on carrying liquids have been relaxed
To date, the number of airports that have this technology available is still limited and has concretely eliminated, or drastically reduced, limitations on liquids. Below are the airports that already adopt this system:
- Milan Malpensa (Italy)
- Milan Linate (Italy)
- Rome Fiumicino (Italy)
- London City Airport (UK)
- Teesside International Airport (UK)
- Shannon Airport (Ireland)
- Donegal Airport (Ireland)
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Netherlands)
- Stockholm Arlanda Airport (Sweden)
- Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (Spain)
- Barcelona-El Prat Airport (Spain)
- Melbourne Airport (Australia)
- Tokyo Haneda Airport (Japan)
- Incheon International Airport (South Korea)
- Jeju International Airport (South Korea)
- Kuwait International Airport (Kuwait).
For these reasons, it is important to pay attention to specific airports and inform yourself before departure as not all airports have removed the restrictions yet. It is hoped that by 2026 the majority of European airports will adopt these technologies, significantly improving traveller convenience .
How much liquid can you bring in your checked baggage?
In hold baggage, liquids in quantities exceeding 100 ml may be transported without specific limitations, provided they are securely packaged to avoid loss during transit. However, it is always advisable to check the specific rules of the airline you are travelling with, as they may have different policies regarding the transport of liquids in your checked baggage and impose a limitation of maximum 10 litres.
