The Spanish authorities plan to allow passengers to carry more than 100 ml of liquids in hand luggage without any restrictions through several airports in the country from 2024.
According to a statement by the state-owned company Aena, which is responsible for airports in Spain, restrictions on liquids will be lifted at Madrid-Baharas and Barcelona-El Prat airports next year, after special 3D X-ray scanners are installed there, SchengenVisaInfo reports.
After that, the technology is planned to be introduced at the airports of Palma de Mallorca, as well as Malaga-Costa del Sol from 2025, and to 2026 – in Gran Canaria, Tenerife Sur, Fuerteventura, and others.
It is noted that, among other things, the new rules will allow passengers to carry bottles of wine or olive oil in hand luggage.
Also, after the implementation of the new system, travelers will be able to leave electronics in their luggage, which can be taken into the aircraft cabin.
Aena said it would make a significant investment in the Explosive Detection System for Hand Baggage (EDSCB), designed to create a 3D image of the contents of suitcases. The new project should save travelers time without compromising airport security.
Spanish authorities implemented the current regulations on liquids in hand luggage in 2006 after a failed terrorist plot on flights from London. Since then, the 100 ml limit applies not only to liquids but also to gels, pastes, and emulsions.
Easing the rules for transporting liquids in hand luggage
New 3D scanners and improved X-ray technology have already been tested in the US and will soon be introduced in European airports.
The UK government has also previously announced that the country’s airports will use new scanners from June 2024.
A 100ml liquid limit also used to apply in Ireland but was lifted last year. In particular, Shannon Airport was the first to confirm the cancellation of the rules for the transportation of liquids.
The new changes introduced at several airports are expected to, among other things, prevent the chaos that occurs at airports, especially during the height of the summer season.