Despite the promise of smoother security procedures at major airports in 2024, the plan to roll out advanced scanners that would eradicate the need to separate liquids and electronics and adhere to the strict 100ml rule has hit more than a few road bumps. Since the technology update was first announced by the UK government in 2018, many airports stated they would miss the June 2024 deadline – and those that did manage to meet it have now been forced to revert back to previous carry-on rules. But it isn’t just the UK that is impacted by these delays and changes .
Come Sunday 1 September , airports in EU countries will likewise have to make a U-turn, as the European Commission will be enforcing temporary regulations until a “tech issue” with the equipment is rectified. While there have been other reports that the EU will also be simultaneously standardising the size of hand luggage to make things fairer for passengers, a spokesperson for the European Commission has confirmed to Condé Nast Traveller that this is not true. “Unfortunately, there has been some misinformation spreading as no upcoming EU regulation foresees changes to hand luggage rules.
“What is correct is that in July 2024, the Commission services organised a workshop with all interested stakeholders to discuss possible common industry standards on the weight and dimensions of hand luggage. This initiative responds to a call from former Transport Commissioner Vălean in December 2023 to the industry .