anticipated scrapping of the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage at German airports
The European Commission, in collaboration with the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), has been working to resolve the issue of carry-on luggage restrictions on flights within the EU. This initiative has led to a significant change in the rules, allowing airports to lift the 100ml liquid limit on carry-on luggage for passengers.
Some German airports, such as Berlin, have already installed the new advanced 3D CT security scanners. This technology allows security officials to better differentiate between explosive materials and harmless liquids, eliminating the need for the previous 100ml limit. Passengers can now carry larger quantities of liquids, though this is not yet standardized across all airports or terminals.
For instance, airports like Frankfurt and Duesseldorf have implemented the new scanners, with Frankfurt currently operating 40 CT scanners at its busiest checkpoints. Seven CT scanners are in operation at Duesseldorf Airport, allowing passengers to leave liquids and electronics in their luggage instead of unpacking. However, since passengers do not know which screening device they will be screened by upon departure at Frankfurt Airport, the 100ml limit effectively remains in place for now.
In Munich, the necessary hardware for the new security scanners is available, but a change to the software is required before the 100ml limit can be scrapped. The relevant aviation authority will implement the software change "as soon as operational processes and requirements permit."
The gradual lifting of the 100ml liquid limit at German airports is part of a broader initiative across Europe. Five airports in Italy have already scrapped the 100ml limit on liquids. However, it's important to note that this easing applies only where the new scanners are operational, and liquid restrictions might differ not just between countries but even between terminals within the same airport.
Passengers are advised to verify liquid rules before traveling, as the full rollout and consistent application of the new rules across Germany and the EU are ongoing and expected to expand over time. The 100ml rule could not yet be lifted at Duesseldorf Airport, and a fixed date for complete removal across all German airports has not been announced.
In Berlin, the 100ml liquid limit for flights departing from Berlin remains in place, with liquids carried on flights coming from Berlin must be packed in containers that do not exceed 100ml in volume, and the total combined volume can not exceed one litre (so ten 100ml containers maximum).
This change follows trials and regulatory approval by the European Commission, with initial rollout delayed in summer 2024 due to a technical vulnerability that has since been resolved. The new screening equipment allows thorough detection of liquid explosives inside larger containers, marking a significant step forward in airport security measures.
- As the European Commission and ECAC work towards lifting the 100ml liquid limit on flights within the EU, some German airports like Berlin are currently still enforcing this rule for flights departing from Berlin.
- With the gradual installation of advanced 3D CT security scanners across European airports, such as Frankfurt and Duesseldorf, travelers can anticipate a shift in their carry-on luggage lifestyles, allowing them to carry larger quantities of liquids in the near future.
