One of the most aggravating parts of packing is having to portion out liquids into tiny bottles in order to comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule.
And while the TSA gloats that the world is now “safer” from terrorists because they confiscated grandma’s toothpaste – the rest of us roll our eyes.
But one country now sees the ineffectiveness of the liquid carry-on rule and is rolling it back – and when the U.S. was asked if they’d follow suit – here’s what they had to say.
The buzz all started when UK Transport Secretary Mark Harper announced all major airports across the UK would have a massive upgrade to their screening equipment – which would eliminate the need for passengers to follow the UK’s 100ml liquid rule.
GOV.UK reported:
“Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:
The tiny toiletry has become a staple of airport security checkpoints, but that’s all set to change. I’m streamlining cabin bag rules at airports while enhancing security.
By 2024, major airports across the UK will have the latest security tech installed, reducing queuing times, improving the passenger experience, and most importantly detecting potential threats.
Of course, this won’t happen straight away – this is going to take 2 years to be fully implemented. Until then, passengers must continue following the existing rules and check before travelling.
Passengers are currently required to remove tablets, laptops and liquids from their cabin baggage, while liquids have been limited to 100ml and must be in a clear plastic bag. This requirement will eventually be lifted, and the 100ml liquid container limit will be extended to 2 litres.”
Harper said airports have until June 2024 to be in compliance, so for now they are still required to follow the same liquid rules until the changes are finalized.
So with the UK leading the charge – one would think the United States would jump on board too, right?
Of course not!
Government bureaucrats love to exert their power over the rest of us.
Nonetheless, a rumor began to circle that the TSA would eliminate their 3-1-1 liquid rule…
… but when VERIFY reached out to the TSA – TSA reiterated the 3-1-1 rule was here to stay… for now.
VERIFY reported:
“TSA says it isn’t changing the rules in the United States.
In an email to VERIFY, a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) spokesperson said that it is “absolutely not true” that U.S. airports would eliminate the 3.4-ounce container rule by 2024.”
So there ya have it folks.
When flying within the U.S. – be prepared to squeeze all your liquids into tiny, clear bottles – and don’t count on the TSA rescinding the liquid rule anytime soon.
Afterall, there’s no way the TSA would willingly give up having control over travelers without a fight.
What are your thoughts on the United Kingdom easing up their carry-on liquid rule?
Do you think the United States should follow their lead?
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