100ml liquid restrictions to return to EU airports in September

Temporary reinstatement of 100ml liquid limit across all EU airports.

Travelling through airport security can often be a tedious part of flying. Some European airports, however, have managed to ease this process by introducing cutting-edge scanners. These advanced machines allow travellers to carry electronic devices and liquids in any quantity without having to remove them from their bags. However, the European Commission has recently announced the former rule of limiting liquid containers to 100 millilitres will return from 1st September.

These innovative scanners, known as C3 EDSCB, utilise high-resolution, three-dimensional imaging through CT scans. This technology can easily detect explosives within cosmetics, liquids, or electronic devices. Passengers are thus spared the inconvenience of unpacking their bags or removing certain items, which can significantly speed up the security process. Only a simple walk through a metal detector is required.

But the reliability of these scanners has come under scrutiny. According to a technical report submitted by the European Commission to the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) last May, the software of these scanners cannot guarantee accurate detection for containers exceeding 330 millilitres. This finding led to concerns about potential security vulnerabilities.

As a precautionary measure, the European Commission announced the temporary reintroduction of liquid restrictions for these C3 scanners. A spokesperson stated that these restrictions would remain until the identified technical issues are resolved. The Commission maintains that they have not changed their view on the quality of the new scanners, nor do they question their overall performance. Nonetheless, airports currently employing C3 models will have to revert to traditional X-ray scanners, which are less capable of accurately examining the contents of baggage and detecting explosive materials in liquids.

The financial implications for airports are significant. According to the Airports Council International Europe (ACI), the new C3 scanners are “eight times more expensive” than the older models, and their maintenance costs are “four times higher.” Airports that have already invested in these new technologies to improve passenger experience face substantial penalties. The anticipated benefits of these state-of-the-art scanners may not be realised.

“Security is a top priority for European airports, and non-negotiable,” stated Olivier Jankovec, director general of ACI. “Airports will comply with the new restrictions, but those that have embraced this technology early are now being penalised, both operationally and financially.” He added that the decision to impose these restrictions casts doubt on the reliability of the EU’s certification system for aviation security equipment.