The European Union Introduces New Liquid Restrictions for Carry-On Luggage

Starting September 1, 2024, the European Union (EU) will reintroduce liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage at airports. Although many European airports have adopted state-of-the-art CT scanners capable of creating high-resolution 3D images and detecting potential threats, the EU has decided to once again limit the amount of liquids allowed to containers no larger than 100 milliliters.

This measure aims to enhance security, although it could have significant repercussions on passenger experience and airport finances.

New Liquid Restrictions in Hand Luggage and Existing Technology

Image: El Confidencial

CT scanners represent one of the most advanced technologies in airport security. These devices use X-rays to create high-resolution 3D volumetric images, allowing security agents to inspect the contents of hand luggage without requiring passengers to remove liquids or large electronic devices.

Additionally, these scanners are equipped with automatic explosive detection systems, which help identify potential threats more effectively than traditional scanners.

However, the EU has determined that despite these advanced capabilities, CT scanners are not sufficiently effective in detecting liquid explosives. This has led to the reintroduction of regulations limiting the amount of liquids passengers can carry in their hand luggage to containers of 100 milliliters, with specific exceptions for baby products and medications.

How Do These Restrictions Affect Passengers?

The reintroduction of these restrictions will directly affect passengers traveling from European airports. The ability to carry liquids without restrictions in hand luggage had significantly improved the traveler experience, reducing wait times at security checkpoints. With the new regulation, passengers will once again need to remove liquids from their bags and ensure that each container does not exceed 100 milliliters, which will inevitably slow down the security process and could lead to frustration.

Impact on Airport Security: Greater Security, Less Passenger Flow

Image: ThoughtCo

The reintroduction of these restrictions is motivated by the need to ensure maximum security at airports. Although CT scanners offer advanced results, the possibility of liquid explosives going undetected is concerning. The EU has prioritized security over convenience, opting for a more cautious approach to minimize the risk of incidents.

However, this could have unintended consequences. Slower security checks could lead to longer wait times, congestion at checkpoints, and ultimately a less satisfying passenger experience. Airports that have invested in this advanced technology with the hope of streamlining the security process now face uncertain returns on their investment.

Options to Improve Security and Technology

Investments in Research and Development

To address these concerns, both governments and the private sector could invest in the research and development of new technologies that can overcome current limitations. This includes improving liquid explosive detection systems, as well as developing artificial intelligence algorithms that can identify threats more precisely and quickly.

For example, Smiths Detection, a leading security technology company, is working on improving its liquid explosive detection systems to increase accuracy and reduce false alarms. Investing in such innovations will allow airports to maintain high levels of security without sacrificing efficiency.

Integration of Complementary Technologies

Another solution could be the integration of complementary technologies that work alongside CT scanners. For example, spectroscopic analysis systems, which use light to identify the chemical composition of liquids, could be added to security checkpoints to enhance threat detection capabilities.

Similarly, the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) for real-time data analysis could help security agents make more informed and faster decisions. AI could be used to analyze passenger behavior patterns and detect warning signs that could indicate the presence of hazardous materials.

Airport Innovation in Security Control

Some airports are already leading the way in adopting advanced technologies to improve both security and passenger experience.

• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: This airport has implemented CT scanners along with AI technology to optimize security control. Passengers can pass through security without needing to remove liquids or electronic devices from their luggage, significantly reducing wait times.
• London Heathrow International Airport: Heathrow has integrated facial recognition technology and CT scanners to create a smoother and more secure security process. The combination of these technologies allows for faster passenger flow, although the new EU regulation could impact this efficiency.

Image: El Periódico de Aragon

The reintroduction of liquid restrictions in carry-on luggage in the European Union underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing security and efficiency at airports. While security must always be the top priority, it is essential that new technologies continue to be developed and implemented to ensure this security without compromising the passenger experience.

Airports that lead in the adoption of new technologies will be better positioned to offer a superior user experience while meeting the most stringent security standards.

Over time, we will likely see greater integration of advanced technologies that allow passengers to travel with fewer restrictions, ensure everyone’s safety, and optimize airport operations. At Jet Man Pay, we offer a digital platform to improve efficiency, transparency, and security in all transactions. Contact us to find out how we can take your operation to the next level.