New security rules, adopted by European Union came into force week commencing 6th November 2006. The rules will place restrictions on the quantity of liquids, gels and pastes that air passengers can take with them in hand luggage.

Applying to all passengers travelling from any EU airport, (and those travelling from Switzerland, Norway and Iceland) limited quantities of liquids, gels and pastes must be in small containers (no more than 100ml -approximately 4 fl. oz) and carried in one-litre clear plastic, zip-top or re-sealable bag not exceeding 20 cm x 20 cm (8 inches x 8 inches). The new rules do not affect liquids packed in checked luggage, or drinks and perfumes bought at airport shops after passengers clear security. Examples of approved products include shampoo, creams, suntan lotions, toothpaste, hair gel, hair- spray, perfumes, liquid or aerosol deodorants, cosmetics such as mascara and lip- gloss, water and other drinks, soups and syrups and other items of a similar consistency.

Baby foods and medicines also are exempt but can be subject to inspection. All liquids will be subject security checks before passengers board their planes. At the airport security search, the plastic bag must be removed from the cabin bag and x-ray screened separately. Passengers will be required to remove coats and jackets at security checks, and remove large electrical items, including laptops, from bags for inspection.

New restrictions on the size of carry-on luggage will be introduced in April 2007 and will include a limit on hand luggage to a maximum 56 by 45 by 25 centimeters (22 by 17 by 10 inches) - with exceptions for some items, such as musical instruments.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 6th, 2006 at 10:36 pm and is filed under Air travel. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.