Carry-on Liquid Ban Relaxed

Today, the NY Times reports that the complete liquid ban for carry-on baggage is being relaxed – a bit, but apparently unwilling to admit the previous decision for a complete liquid ban was a knee-jerk reaction: “The changes, announced at a news conference today in Washington, reflect a conclusion among officials in Europe and North America that a total ban on liquids is no longer needed to ensure security.”

The new rules, which will go into effect Tuesday, allow travelers to carry liquids, gels or aerosols in containers of 3 ounces or less, as long as they all fit into a clear 1-quart plastic bag that can be screened at the security checkpoint. Drinks and other items purchased in the secure part of the airport, beyond the checkpoint, will also be allowed onto planes.

The new regulations will apply to all domestic and international flights departing from United States airports, the agency said.

Other countries to follow suit:

Homeland Security officials said that they expected Canada to announce similar new rules today and that some European countries were moving in the same direction.

Thanks to World Hum for pointing us to this article.