By Catherine McGeer
Copyright euroweeklynews
Dublin Airport has implemented major changes to its hand luggage security procedures, making life easier for passengers while maintaining the highest levels of safety. From now on, liquids, gels, and electronic devices can remain inside hand luggage during security screening.
The long-standing 100ml restriction on liquids and gels has also been relaxed, with passengers allowed to carry items of up to two litres. There is no limit on the number of such items, and liquids no longer need to be packed inside clear plastic bags. These changes came into effect at midnight on September 18, following a multi-million-euro investment in advanced scanning technology.
Advanced technology behind the changes
The key to these new rules is the rollout of 30 cutting-edge ‘C3’ scanners across both terminals at Dublin Airport. The scanners, which took about three years to install, generate detailed 3D images of hand luggage, similar to CT scanners used in hospitals.
This technology allows security staff to identify the contents of bags more accurately and efficiently, meaning passengers no longer need to unpack liquids, gels, or electronic devices. DAA, which operates Dublin Airport, describes the C3 scanners as the ‘best threat detection technology available‘ in the aviation industry.
The installation of the scanners was a significant operational and financial undertaking. It involved reconfiguring parts of Terminal 1 to accommodate the larger and heavier machines. Despite the challenges, the rollout was completed ahead of schedule, well before the regulatory deadline of December 31, 2025.
Why the Rules Are Changing?
The 100ml liquid rule was introduced globally in 2006 following a foiled terrorist plot, requiring passengers to limit liquids in hand luggage to 100ml containers and pack them in clear plastic bags. While effective at enhancing safety, the rule has long been criticized by travellers as inconvenient and time-consuming.
The new scanning technology has made the rule largely unnecessary at Dublin Airport. The C3 scanners can detect potential threats in larger quantities of liquids and gels without passengers needing to remove them, streamlining the security process while maintaining safety standards.
What Has Changed for Passengers?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the changes at Dublin Airport:
Liquids, gels, and electronics stay in hand luggage: Passengers no longer need to remove these items during screening.
Increased liquid limit: Items up to 2 litres are now allowed.
No limit on the number of items: Passengers can carry as many liquid containers as needed.
No plastic bags required: Liquids and gels do not need to be packed in clear bags.
These changes significantly reduce stress and time spent at security checkpoints, particularly for business travellers, families, and passengers with multiple carry-on items.
What Remains the Same?
While the new rules improve convenience, some security measures continue:
Belts, footwear extending over the ankle, jackets, hoodies, and oversized jumpers or cardigans must still be removed and placed in trays.
All items from pockets, including keys, wallets, and phones, must still be removed.
Other security checks, such as random secondary screenings, remain in place to maintain high safety standards.
Impact on Passenger Experience
The C3 scanners not only improve security but also reduce wait times. During the recent peak summer months, when Dublin Airport handled a record 11 million passengers, 96 per cent of passengers proceeded through security in under 20 minutes. The new system balances speed, convenience, and safety, making the airport experience smoother for everyone.
Gary McLean, Managing Director of Dublin Airport, said: ‘Passengers have been looking forward to the day when the 100ml rule would be gone for good , and today is that day. These scanners enhance passenger experience while maintaining the highest security standards.’
Cork Airport set to roll out new 3D scanners
The DAA plans to introduce the same technology at Cork Airport later this month, part of a €200 million investment to upgrade the passenger experience. A new mezzanine floor over the existing Arrivals concourse will house a larger security area with C3 scanners.
By implementing these upgrades, DAA makes sure that Ireland’s airports remain among the most technologically advanced in Europe, combining efficiency with stringent security.
Advice for Passengers
While Dublin Airport has fully adopted the new rules, passengers flying from other airports are advised to check local liquid rules before travelling. To prevent delays, passengers should prepare for security in advance, removing items from pockets and being ready for screening.
The new rules make Dublin Airport one of the first major European airports to allow liquids, gels, and electronics to remain in hand luggage, offering a smoother and more convenient experience for millions of travellers each year.
