Rumor has been circulating that the liquid limits for carry-on luggage on planes will be changing, but this change is not expected to occur until the year 2040. Currently, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows for travel-sized containers that are 3.4oz (100ml) or less of liquids, gels, or aerosols. This rule, known as the “3-1-1” rule, was implemented in 2006 following a terrorist threat in the UK involving liquid explosives. Originally intended to be temporary, the restriction still remains nearly two decades later.
In 2022, there were developments in UK airports as new scanners were rolled out. These scanners, known as Computed Tomography (CT) units, can distinguish liquids more effectively and allow for containers of up to two liters in size. While some smaller airports have implemented this new technology, larger airports have lagged behind due to government-imposed deadlines. Despite advances in screening technology, it was announced in June that the 100ml limit would stay in place in airports, whether they had the advanced CT units or not.
While there is some hope for a higher liquid limit in Europe in the near future, the same cannot be said for the United States. The TSA is still in the process of deploying CT units capable of screening larger sizes of liquids, but changing the current 3-1-1 rule will take time due to the number of screening lanes across the country. A TSA spokesperson confirmed that it may not be until the year 2040 that the CT units are fully deployed nationwide and the liquid limit requirement can be changed.
For travelers hoping to bring larger liquids on planes, they will have to wait approximately 16 years for any potential changes to the liquid limit rules in the United States. Despite advancements in technology that can better detect liquids and improve security measures, the current 3-1-1 rule remains in effect. While there have been developments in scanning technology and possibilities for increased liquid limits in Europe, the United States is not expected to make any significant changes to the rule in the foreseeable future.
