Passengers departing from five of Italy’s busiest airports can now carry liquids over 100ml in their hand luggage, thanks to the installation of advanced security screening technology.
The change, announced by the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC), is in line with new guidelines from the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) and marks a significant relief for travellers.
Where the new measure applies
The measure concerns the following airports:
Rome Fiumicino (FCO)
Milan Linate (LIN)
Milan Malpensa (MXP)
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi (BLQ)
Turin Caselle (TRN)
All five have installed the new generation EDSCB (Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage) systems, which “scan” the contents of hand luggage – including liquids – without requiring them to be removed during security screening.
What changes for passengers
The new rules allow the transport of liquids such as water, wine, olive oil, perfumes and creams in containers of up to two liters, as long as customs regulations are met. This is a substantial relaxation of the restriction that has been in force for almost two decades, with a maximum permitted volume of 100ml and mandatory packaging in transparent one-liter bags.
In addition, passengers no longer need to remove electronic devices such as laptops, tablets and cameras from their bags. This change is expected to speed up the screening process and improve the traveler experience.
Why now
This development comes after the ECAC approved the EDSCB technology, which can detect traces of explosives with high accuracy, even through dense materials. Although Rome, Milan and other airports had piloted the system in 2024, the European Commission had temporarily reinstated the 100ml rule in September due to a technical issue, which has now been resolved.
Exclusions and restrictions
Not all flights are covered by the new regulation. For example, departures from Rome Fiumicino to the US and Israel are still subject to the old rules, with a 100ml limit and the mandatory removal of electronic devices during screening.
At all other Italian airports that do not yet have the new machines, the existing restrictions remain in force.
The next day for aviation security
ENAC plans to expand the EDSCB technology to other airports in the coming years, with the aim of completely eliminating the restriction on liquids in hand luggage throughout the country.
With Italy now joining the list of European countries adopting the new screening technologies, the change marks a shift in aviation security towards greater convenience for passengers, without compromising on protection.
