New airport security measures come into force

New aviation security regulations take effect at airports across the EU at midnight.

Only containers of 100mls or less of liquids, gels, pastes, lotions and cosmetics can be brought through the passenger security screening points.

These items must also be carried in transparent re-sealable bags measuring no more than 20cm x 20cm.

The new rules apply to liquids such as water and other beverages, aerosol cans and toiletries such as toothpaste, shaving cream, hair gel, lip-gloss and creams.

The Dublin Airport Authority requested passengers to bring their own transparent bags but they will be available during the introductory period of the regulations.

Transport Minister Martin Cullen said: “This new rules will pose major challenges for all airports but it’s about security for passengers.

“I’m glad that Dublin Airport signalled the changes in advance and is making a huge effort to forewarn all passengers what they can take on flights with them.

“We will just all have to get used to the new system when we travel internationally and we have to remember it is for our own security.”

A spokeswoman for the DAA urged passengers to check the restrictions.

“We strongly recommend that passengers familiarise themselves with these new regulations before coming to the airport so that delays at the passenger security screening point are kept to a minimum,” she said.

“We are also calling for the support of all key players in the travel/tourism industry to assist the DAA in the communication and implementation of these new EU security regulations.”

The restrictions and added security checks are expected to add to the problems caused by overcrowding at Dublin Airport.

The DAA said in order to minimise potential delays at the passenger security screening area additional Customer Service Agents will be in the terminal building and special areas will be set aside before the passenger security screening point to prepare passengers for the new change.

Information leaflets are being distributed to passengers throughout the terminal building and in the short and long-term car parks and more detail is available on www.dublinairport.com.

Dublin Airport’s freephone advice line for information is 1800 250 180.