Airports across the European Union will discontinue the 100 milliliter restriction on liquids in hand luggage.
New Explosive Detection Systems Rolled Out in EU Airports
New advanced explosive detection systems, capable of scanning the contents of larger liquid containers, are being phased in at EU airports following regulatory approval by the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) in June 2025. These cutting-edge scanners use high-resolution 3D imaging and enhanced threat detection capabilities, providing more accurate screening of liquids.
The rollout has already begun at select airports, particularly in Italy (Rome and Milan), and is planned for airports in Germany, Sweden, Ireland, the Netherlands, and other countries. However, adoption is not uniform across the EU, and the pace of implementation depends on each airport's financial and infrastructural capacity.
The cost of these new systems is significant, and no exact figures have been publicly disclosed. The investment required for infrastructure upgrades and the technological demands of the new systems explain the gradual, phased implementation.
The rollout schedule is ongoing, with initial installations starting in 2025 at a few airports. Other airports are expected to adopt the technology in subsequent months and years as they pass certification and complete infrastructure readiness. Passengers should continue following the 100ml restriction until their departure airport officially announces the new regulations.
This represents a significant step forward in EU airport security and passenger convenience, potentially setting a new global standard for liquid screening protocols. The new systems would allow passengers to bring bottles containing more than 100ml on board when traveling within the EU. Other airports in Germany, Ireland, Lithuania, Malta, Sweden, and the Netherlands could deploy the technology after its final approval.
It's worth noting that traditional security equipment cannot effectively detect liquid explosives. The European Commission, however, has not yet released specific details on the cost of the new systems or provided a timeline for their installation in all EU airports. ECAC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In summary, the new explosive detection systems are now available for cabin baggage and have been installed in some EU airports. The rollout is ongoing, with a gradual and phased implementation plan. Passengers should continue to follow the 100ml restriction until their departure airport officially announces the new regulations.
| Aspect | Details | |---------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Technology | Advanced explosive detection with 3D imaging, approved by ECAC mid-2025 | | Availability | Phased rollout begun at select airports (Italy, Germany, Sweden, etc.) | | Cost | Significant investment, varying by airport; no public fixed cost | | Rollout Schedule | Ongoing phased implementation, starting 2025; wider EU adoption dependent on certification | | Passenger advice | Continue adhering to 100ml rule until official airport notice |
These advancements in explosive detection technology may drastically change travel lifestyle for EU residents and tourists, allowing for carrying larger liquid containers in cabin baggage during intra-EU travel. As the new systems are rolled out across various EU airports, individuals should remain mindful of the ongoing 100ml restriction until receiving official updates from their departure airport.
