The EU Commission is reviewing the approval of new hand luggage scanners. This could eliminate the 100-milliliter limit for liquids. The special feature of the new technology: The devices work similarly to a CT scanner in hospitals and produce high-resolution 3D images of the luggage contents. This allows dangerous substances and items to be detected even in larger containers – without passengers having to laboriously unpack their bags.

United Kingdom already using new hand luggage scanners

While airports in the United Kingdom – including London Heathrow and Gatwick – have already introduced the new technology and lifted the 100-milliliter limit for liquids, the rule remains in effect in the EU. Although European airports like Frankfurt or Rome also have the new scanners, they are currently only allowed to be used in a limited capacity due to the lack of approval from the EU Commission.

Airports demand swift decision

C3 scanners are expensive: With acquisition costs in the six-figure range, they exceed conventional devices by tenfold. Many airports have nonetheless made advance investments and are now pushing for an EU-wide regulation.

However, implementation before the start of the summer travel season is considered unlikely. As the EU Commission explained to the Ö1-Morgenjournal, efforts are being made to find a solution. However, no specific timeline was mentioned. For travelers, this means for the time being: Liquids over 100 milliliters remain taboo in the EU area – despite high-tech at many checkpoints.

(Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.