Heads up holidaymakers - new changes coming to airport liquid restrictions across Europe

The European Union has announced that 100ml liquid restrictions will be reintroduced at airports across the bloc from September.

Here's all you need to know - 

Do I need to remove liquids from my bag at the airport?

In Terminal 2 of Dublin Airport, all the scanners have been upgraded, meaning you no longer have to remove your liquids or electronics from your hand luggage.

Other airports across Europe have upgraded, and this will be signposted well in advance for travellers passing through security.

Terminal 1 of Dublin Airport is yet to upgrade, as are many European airports, and for these scanners your liquids will still have to be removed.

What are the new restrictions on liquids for carry-ons?

As of the 1st September, passengers must carry at most 100ml liquids in their cabin baggage, including aerosol and gel containers. 

Checked in luggage will not be affected by this new EU law, but those travelling abroad in September must ensure their deodrants, shampoos and toothpastes are in 100ml bottles.

Why are there liquid restrictions in airport security?

Since a terrorist threat in 2006, liquids have been limited in volume to 100ml and must be shown in a clear plastic bag. The rule is aimed at stopping liquid explosives being carried on to planes.

The terror plot involved plans to take home-made mixture of chemicals in ordinary sports drinks bottles on to a series of US and Canada-bound flights from London.

The plot was thwarted but caused chaos to international aviation and prompted the current restrictions on liquids for airline passengers.

Has there been any criticism of the new law?

The European branch of Airports Council International (ACI) has warned that this “severe restriction” will cause “significant operational strain” by reducing the passenger throughput of security checkpoints.

ACI Europe has called on the EU Commission and Member States to establish a roadmap with set goals for the measure, which according to them, is temporary.

It is calling for 100ml liquids to be allowed to remain inside cabin bags when screened by next-generation CT scanners “in order to limit operational impacts.”

ACI also points to the fact that airports which have invested in the cutting-edge technology are being “penalised” by the restriction: “purchasing C3 scanners is on average eight times more expensive than the conventional X-ray screening machines they are replacing, while operating maintenance costs are four times higher.”

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