The TSA sets a strict 3.4-ounce limit on any liquids, gels, and aerosols that passengers can bring through airport security in a carry-on bag. Passengers must contain these liquids inside one quart-sized bag, and only one bag is allowed per passenger. This regulation is known as the "3-1-1 rule." In recent years, there are rumors of a change to this rule that would allow passengers to carry on larger bottles of personal items like toothpaste and moisturizer. However, despite technological advances in security screening, these rumors are unlikely to become reality anytime soon. Here's why you shouldn't expect the TSA to change its liquid rules in the near future.
So why haven't airport liquid restrictions changed yet?
Source: Google Search
What is computed tomography?
Airports currently impose a strict liquid limit because the scanners in most major airports can only produce 2D images of a bag's contents. This 2D rendering makes it impossible to accurately determine if a liquid could potentially be used as an explosive. However, a new technology known as computed tomography (similar to the technology found in hospitals) is slowly making its way to airports around the world.
These highly advanced CT scanners produce 3D images that can be viewed and analyzed in greater detail, allowing TSA officers to determine if a bag's contents pose any risk. Once these CT scanners are widely adopted, airline passengers theoretically won't need to remove any liquids or laptops from their carry-ons – but that day is still a long way off.
Reported change in Europe
In 2022, airports in the United Kingdom start using new CT-equipped scanners to make the security process more efficient. Officials hope that once the scanners are in place, passengers can bring liquids up to 2 liters in their carry-ons, which is 20 times larger than the current 100-milliliter (3.4-ounce) limit across Europe. Other countries follow suit and install new CT scanners at their major airports, such as Amsterdam and Rome.
However, the hopes for a system-wide change are dashed, at least for now. The UK Department of Transport and the European Union reaffirm the 100-milliliter limit on liquids. This decision is based on two main reasons. First, too many airports still lack the advanced 3D technology, so a widespread change to the rules isn't yet possible. Second, some of the scanners have glitches that cause them to function improperly. While there are hopes that, once these issues are resolved, many European countries will start to relax their liquid rules, it remains to be seen what will happen.
.jpg){kind=spacer}
Source: Google Search
When will TSA liquid restrictions change?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has started rolling out airport security scanners with computed tomography technology. These scanners are now present in many major airports, such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Los Angeles International, and New York's JFK. However, since the deployment of these machines isn't complete yet, the TSA recently confirmed that there are no plans to relax the liquid rules anytime soon.
According to a TSA spokesperson, it may not be until 2040 that they have CT units fully deployed across the nation. This incomplete deployment of the new scanners means that the TSA won't be making any major changes to the airport screening process for an estimated 15 years. This includes maintaining the 3.4-ounce liquid limit, which is expected to remain the same.
What passengers can do now
Whenever you take a commercial flight, you are subject to the TSA's rules and regulations for security screening. Until the agency relaxes the liquid limits, travelers must follow this guideline. You can check the TSA website for a simple explanation of the rules, so you know what liquids are allowed in your carry-on and what has to be placed in your checked bag.
However, any liquids purchased at the airport duty-free shop are exempt from the 3.4-ounce rule. This includes liquids bought internationally before traveling to the United States on a connecting flight. Make sure the liquids are still in their secure, tamper-evident bags and were purchased within the last 48 hours and keep your receipt handy in case a TSA agent asks to see it.
Planning a trip to Europe? Streamline your journey with ParkingNearAirports.io!
Source: François Genon/Unsplash
Traveling to Europe soon? Don't let airport logistics slow you down! Thankfully, our smart booking platform, ParkingNearAirports.io, simplifies your parking search. Find convenient and affordable options with the best airport parking rates near major American airports, including parking near LAX with shuttle, off-site parking Atlanta Airport, and more. So, just focus on exploring Europe and leave the parking hassles to us!
