For air travelers, a rather substantial change looms: the European Union is on the verge of doing away with the 100ml limit for liquids carried on board, potentially as soon as late July or early August in 2025. This upcoming allowance, facilitated by re-engaged advanced Hi-Scan 6040 CTix scanners, means passengers can carry larger amounts of liquids such as bottled water, fine wines, oils, various cosmetic products, and the like. This adjustment essentially reverses a brief period of more relaxed regulations, which were then suspended as a precaution in 2024, promising swifter security processes and an overall smoother experience in equipped EU airports.
Advanced Scanners Drive the Change
This adjustment to lift the limitations on carrying liquids is heavily reliant on deploying the latest Hi-Scan 6040 CTix scanners, crafted by Smiths Detection. These units are currently functioning within notable Italian airports like Rome Fiumicino, plus Milan’s Linate and Malpensa, not forgetting Bergamo, Bologna, Turin, and Catania. They employ high-definition 3D imaging capabilities alongside advanced algorithmic processes to instantly evaluate the contents within luggage, specifically detecting explosive substances with marked accuracy. Given they handle roughly 70 million passengers yearly, these airports are set to be the pioneers in putting these new rules into action, pending a final nod from the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), which is expected in July.
These next-gen scanners, in addition to allowing greater liquid volumes, also do away with the need for removing electronics like laptops, tablets, or smartphones from carry-on luggage during screening. This notably cuts down on time wasted and adds a measure of convenience. What is more, travelers have the option of making things even more efficient by taking advantage of “fast track” services which get you through checkpoints quicker.
A Response to Evolving Security Needs
Originally put in place back in 2006 following the events of September 11, the 100ml liquid limitation was meant to stop transporting dangerous liquid materials. However, over the years, due to scanning technology’s progress—not too different from CT scans used in hospitals—certain airports, especially in Italy, began experimenting by scanning carry-ons without necessarily opening them. That said, due to concerns brought forth by the United States in 2024 regarding the reliability of the Hi-Scan 6040 CTix scanners, the EU opted to temporarily bring back the restrictions, thus ensuring newer devices fell in line with older systems.
Now, the updated scanner software, which is close to getting ECAC approval, resolves these worries, thus reinstating confidence in their capability to provide security while loosening up on the strict regulations. This technological enhancement marks a critical step forward in bringing up to date security measures within EU airports.
Not All EU Airports Are Ready
It’s important to recognize that, while this shift promises to streamline transit, it is only going to apply to airports making use of these “smart” security systems similar to the Hi-Scan 6040 CTix. If you are passing through airports still equipped with previous-gen tech, you’ll still need to abide by that 100ml rule and the standard security processes. This really underscores the significance of upgrading infrastructure for more consistent standards across the EU airports.
A Win for Air Travelers
The expected elimination of this 100ml liquid restriction is undeniably a big deal for air travel in Europe. By leaning into advanced scanning capabilities, the EU does not just enhance how well security works, it likewise makes for an overall better experience for passengers. So, as various major airports prepare to put these changes into effect potentially by August 2025, people traveling can look forward to packing with a bit less worry, and making it through security in a more timely fashion – effectively beginning a new chapter of ease and convenience in air travel.