Brussels has until May 1 to review the rules for carry-on luggage in EU airports, which were introduced in November 2006. Initially, after a six-month period, the EU planned to introduce additional restrictions – this time on baggage volume. However, members of the European Parliament's Transport Committee are proposing, on the contrary, to return to the old standards.
Recall that according to current regulations, a passenger is allowed to take on board no more than 1,000 ml of liquid. Moreover, the term 'liquid' also includes cosmetics, perfumes, and medicines. The volume of each container must not exceed 100 ml. All items must be placed in a separate transparent bag. Otherwise, security points the customer to a trash can.
Members of the Transport Committee demanded that the European Commission thoroughly analyze the expediency of these measures. Parliamentarians believe that the time and financial costs for airports and airlines do not justify the effect achieved.
The deputies' demand was readily supported by the Association of German Airlines (BDF). The new instructions cross the limits of reason, BDF believes. The effect of their application is very doubtful, but the disadvantages are obvious. 'There is no logic in the fact that an ordinary bottle of wine purchased at a Duty Free shop in California turns into a liquid explosive during a transfer in Frankfurt,' complains BDF head Tanja Willgos.
According to BDF estimates, after the new rules came into force, the cost of servicing one passenger increased by at least €3. Some companies spend €10 per person on additional control.