EU eases ban on airline liquids

THE 100ml limit on liquids that passengers are allowed to take on board aircraft in the European Union will be gradually relaxed from today.

The EU ban on liquids in hand luggage was due to be relaxed from April 29 last year but the European Commission postponed the decision.

Now, however, the gradual easing of restrictions is beginning. From today, liquids bought in duty-free, such as aerosols, will now be allowed through airport security, as long as they are carried through airport security in a sealed bag.

Changes include:

• Certain duty free liquids – including those bought outside the EU and transferred in EU airports to a connecting flight - can be carried through, provided they are sealed in a security bag at the point of purchase. If the sealed bag is tampered with, passengers will need to produce a receipt.

• Medication and special food products that meet special dietry needs, such as baby food

• Australia, Canada and the US will also screen duty free liquids sealed in security bags by 31 January as well.

All other liquids must still be checked in with bags going into the aircraft hold.
When passing through security, passengers must present liquids for inspection separately from other baggage.

The restrictions were introduced in 2006 when a terror plot was uncovered to detonate bombs disguised as drinks in hand luggage on at least seven flights from the UK to North America.
The EU plans to lift all restrictions by 2016.