Several airports are using new scanners allowing passengers to carry larger quantities of liquids in their hand luggage. This could greatly facilitate the transport of liquid souvenirs such as drinks.
The 100ml liquids limit was introduced in 2006 following the transatlantic terrorist plot to introduce liquid explosives disguised as soft drinks on flights from the UK to the US and Canada.
However, new technology could change this and increase the amount of liquid allowed per container to two liters. By taking a 3D image of luggage with C3 scanners, similar to MRIs, it is now possible to differentiate between dangerous and harmless liquids. In addition, it is no longer necessary to place all liquids in a separate plastic bag.
While this major development in airport security should speed up the process, it will also make it easier to transport items such as toiletries and sunscreen. But this also means that bottles of wine, spirits and beer can be carried in hand luggage.
London City Airport, located east of London, joins Teesside International in the list of airports that are testing this device. The aim is to roll out the technology to all UK airports by June next year.
If this technology is adopted globally (it is already present in some US airports), it could have an impact on the beverage industry in travel. Travelers might be more inclined to purchase bottles at their vacation destination rather than at airports.
On the other hand, this could be good news for wine tourist destinations a short flight away, as visitors could buy bottles directly at the estate and take them home without having to check in checked baggage.