Regulations regarding the type and amount of liquids that can be brought on board aircraft in hand luggage have been relaxed and standardized across the European Union. The new rules, which took effect yesterday, also apply to airports in the non-EU countries of Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland.
The new European Regulation on aviation security, which was adopted on October 4, is similar to standards adopted in the U.S. in late September.
The new rules limit passengers to no more than 100 milliliters (approximately 3.5 fluid ounces) of liquid per container. All such containers should fit into a clear plastic bag to be presented at security checkpoints. Passengers will be allowed to carry larger amounts of liquid in their checked baggage and can buy additional liquid at airport shops after clearing security checkpoints.
Restrictions on the size of carry-on luggage will go into effect April 17. The rules limit the size of cabin baggage to a maximum 56-by-45-by-25 centimeters, or 22-by-17-by-10 inches--although exceptions could be made for items like musical instruments.
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