Thanks to new CT scanners being installed at Zurich airport, bottles of water and other liquids will no longer have to be surrendered at security checks at Switzerland’s largest airport.
Twenty-six high-tech CT scanners are being installed at Zurich airport, and they will be a game-changer not only in quicker and more efficient security screenings, but also in terms of a less restrictive liquids and electronics rule.
The installation of these devices has caused long queues and long wait times during December.
READ ALSO: Long wait times at Zurich Airport to continue throughout December
Ultimately, however, these temporary inconveniences will be worth their while.
According to the Zurich airport, “CT scanners for carry-on baggage will enable three-dimensional analysis of luggage items.
“Liquids and electronic devices will no longer need to be removed from bags,” project manager Roman Jung told public broadcaster SRF. They can remain in the luggage. This will speed up the [security] process.”
When will the new system kick in?
While some of the scanners are already in place, the new rule will not go into effect until all 26 are installed – by summer 2026.
At that point, passengers will be allowed to go through checkpoints with liquid containers of up to 2 litres – provided the contents are not classified as a security risk.
Until then, “the 100ml liquid regulation will continue to apply,” Zurich airport said.
Larger bottles will be confiscated.
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And electronic devices?
The rule is the same as for liquids: until the system officially launches, you have to remove laptops and other electronics from your carry-on luggage at the security checkpoints.
Once the new system goes into effect, however, you can leave them in.
“This is a major leap forward in screening technology,” said Reto Lanz, deputy head of airport police security checks.
