Get this—the EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) looks set to lift the rule that meant passengers had to remove all liquids before security. Sources say most folks passing through Dublin Airport can soon leave liquids (up to 100 ml containers) in their carry-on, provided they go through the new C3 scanners. You’ll still need a 1‑litre clear bag, but this change promises to speed things up—a major win if you’re trying to beat the queues.

Why the Rule Is Changing: Tech Finally Catches Up

The original 100 ml rule traces back to a plot to bomb aircraft with liquids in 2006 . The solution? High-tech scanners that can tell apart shampoo from suspicious liquids. Dublin Airport has been rolling out C3 scanners across both terminals. Once fully installed (expected by October), these machines will allow passengers to keep liquids and electronics in their bag—subject to regulatory approval.

Travel expert Eoghan Corry said on Newstalk that the rule could end as early as July, pending the green light from both EU and US regulators.

What’s Changing—and What’s Staying the Same

New Standard (expected late 2025):

• Passengers using C3-equipped lanes in T1 & T2 skip taking liquids and electronics out
• No limit on the number of 100 ml containers in your 1‑litre bag

Still in place now:

• All liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less, packed in a sealed 1‑litre bag
• Exceptions: baby milk, medicines, and special diets still require separate trays and approval

Why This Matters for Irish Travellers

Dublin Airport expects over 10 million passengers this summer, with more than 121,000 daily. Long security lines don’t just frustrate travellers—they cost time, add stress to holiday plans, and impact airline schedules. DAA MD Gary McLean says they’re aiming to process 90% of passengers in under 20 minutes, and easing the liquids rule will help achieve that.

If you’re jetting off to Europe this summer, you can expect lighter, fuss-free security scans before you can relax with a coffee or snack at one of the new airside shops.

What You Should Do Right Now

• Stay liquid-savvy: Continue packing any over-100 ml liquids in checked luggage until the new rule is confirmed
• Choose correct lanes: Use C3 scanner lanes in T1 & T2 once available to keep liquids and gadgets in your bag
• Arrive early: Despite improvements, advice remains to arrive 2 hours before short-haul, 3 hours for long-haul
• Check the app: Dublin Airport’s app shows real-time security wait times—a lifesaver on busy days

Benefits Beyond Convenience

1. Saved time at security lets you enjoy more of the airport experience: extra seats, drinking water stations, and gaming zones are in place for summer crowds
2. Match EU standards: Dublin aligns with airports like Shannon, Kerry, and Belfast City using C3 scanners
3. Easier travel: No more rummaging around for liquids, reducing the chance of missing flights or losing items at security

The Bottom Line

The 100 ml liquid limit isn’t going away—but the hassle of removing bottles and gels will soon be. As long as your bag passes through the new C3 scanners, you’ll enjoy streamlined, stress-free security checks. Just remember: same container limits, same sealed bag, but no frantic unpacking. Stay tuned for the official word—it could be the summer upgrade your travels need.

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