The EU is ready to lift the restriction on carrying liquids in hand luggage: up to 2 liters without 100ml bottles

The European Union is preparing to lift the current restriction on carrying liquids in hand luggage. Currently, passengers are allowed to carry no more than one liter of liquids in containers of 100 ml each. However, with the implementation of new security systems equipped with modern scanners, this requirement is gradually becoming obsolete.

The new regulation will allow passengers to carry up to two liters of liquids without the need to divide them into small bottles. Some airports have already begun implementing these changes, including Fiumicino in Rome, Malpensa and Linate in Milan, and Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. These locations have installed next-generation screening systems capable of detecting potentially dangerous substances even in larger containers.

The European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) has approved the new rules and initiated the certification process. In the coming months, similar equipment is expected to be installed in airports in Germany, Ireland, Lithuania, Malta, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Widespread implementation could begin as early as 2026, once certification is complete in all EU member states.

However, for flights outside the EU or during transits through countries where old rules still apply, the 100 ml limit will remain mandatory. Exceptions for medicines, baby food, and specialized products requiring separate screening still apply.

The changes aim to improve passenger convenience and speed up security checks without compromising overall flight safety.