Geneva, Dec. 10, (dpa/GNA) – Restrictions on liquids permitted in passengers’ hand baggage on flights could soon fall away, Willie Walsh, head of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), indicated in Geneva on Tuesday.
Most airlines permit liquids in containers of no more than 100 millilitres to a total of 1 litre per passenger. The containers have in addition to be packed in a transparent plastic bag and often presented separately to security officials when checking in.
The rules have been in force since 2006 and are intended to prevent criminals and terrorists from smuggling explosives onboard a plane.
They are based on recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a UN special agency.
The rules have been imposed by governments, which are able to revise them.
Scanners had now improved to the extent that they could recognize hazardous materials, Walsh said. He added that he could “see signs that liquid restriction will be lifted in due course,” but could not name a date.
GNA