From September 1, travelers at Schiphol, Eindhoven and Rotterdam will once again have to empty or throw away their water bottles before going through security checks.
This decision follows new guidelines from the European Commission, which want to equalize the rules for taking liquids in hand luggage throughout Europe. The measure ends a short-term relaxation that was made possible by the introduction of new CT scanners at Schiphol, which allowed liquids and electronics in hand luggage to be scanned without any problems.
The new CT scanners, introduced in 2021, temporarily allowed travelers to carry liquids in larger containers without having to remove them from hand luggage. This technology not only ensured a smoother flow through security checkpoints, but also reduced the number of half-full bottles of water ending up in the trash. However, this progress was halted by European rules that ban liquids in containers larger than 100 milliliters unless they are packed in transparent, sealable bags.
The liquids rule is not new. Since 2006, after the foiling of a terrorist plot involving the use of liquids as explosives, strict rules have been introduced. The introduction of small bottles and packaging became a necessary evil for travelers at the time. Although technology has evolved since then and modern scanners are able to effectively analyze larger packages, regulations remain unchanged to ensure uniformity and clarity.
A Schiphol spokesperson explains: “Although the CT scanners have been proven to be effective in checking liquids, we must adhere to European rules. This means that travelers must repack their liquids according to the old guidelines.” This decision has led to disappointment among many travelers who hoped for permanently smoother controls. One frequent flyer commented: “It's frustrating. Just when it seemed easier, we have to go back to the old situation.”
The measure raises questions about the balance between safety and efficiency at airports. Despite improved technology, safety remains the top priority. The European Commission emphasizes this uniform rules essential to avoid confusion and guarantee safety at all European airports. “We understand that this may seem like a step backwards for travellers, but these measures are necessary to maintain the highest safety standards,” a Commission spokesperson said.
In addition to the resumption of the liquids rule, work is being done to further optimize safety processes at European airports. Innovations in scanning and detection technologies remain a focus area, with the aim of eventually finding a balance between ease of use and safety. In the meantime, travelers are advised to prepare well and follow the rules regarding liquids in hand luggage to minimize delays and inconvenience.
