As of today, the new rules have been agreed upon by security experts from all 25 countries comprising the European Union. For them to come into force, only approval by the European Commission is needed, and it is expected to follow within a month.
The rules allow a passenger to take on board only one piece of baggage no larger than 56x45x25 cm, such as a small trolley case. It is specifically stated that all protruding elements – handles, wheels, external pockets – must fit within these dimensions. Otherwise, the baggage must be sent to the cargo hold. Exceptions are made only for certain categories of fragile items (in particular, musical instruments).
Special attention is paid to liquids, whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, cosmetics, or medicines. On the flight, a passenger may take no more than one container with a volume of no more than 100 ml. Moreover, this container is recommended to be carried in a transparent bag "suitable for sealing" (presumably with handles). Fortunately, the restrictions on liquids do not apply to beverages purchased in Duty Free shops after passing through pre-flight screening; these "substances" can be taken on board without worry. Unless the flight is bound for the United States, in which case the prohibitions imposed by US aviation authorities come into effect. Since August 10, American authorities have not allowed anything more or less liquid, including even shampoos, gels, and toothpaste, in the cabins of aircraft flying to the USA.
Strictness regarding liquids on commercial airlines began after August 10, when British security services arrested a group of Islamists who intended to destroy several aircraft on routes from London to the USA using liquid explosives. After that, passengers flying from major British airports were generally banned from having hand luggage on board, except for absolutely necessary items – documents and wallets.
On September 22, British authorities relaxed their requirements. Since that day, British norms for hand luggage are close to what the European Commission recommends be applied across the entire European Union from November. In particular, passengers departing from England, as well as those transiting through it, may carry (not in the cargo hold) one small case or bag no larger than 56x45x25 cm. There must be no liquids in it, at least until after pre-flight screening. The only exceptions are for baby food and doctor-prescribed medications. After screening in the so-called "sterile zone" of the airport, passengers may indulge in beverages from Duty Free shops. However, if the flight is to the USA, these purchases cannot be taken on board.