The real reason liquids over 100ml can’t be brought onto international flights
One thing most people keep in mind when setting off on an international holiday is to condense any liquids in their carry-on to 100ml or less, or run the risk of it being thrown out by security.
This goes for bottles of water, makeup, skincare, and other liquid toiletries, as well as big bottles of hand sanitiser or the coffee you bought on the way to the airport.
While we accept this is a part of boarding an international flight, a lot of people don’t know the reasoning behind the strict rules.
So, why can’t we take liquids over 100ml in our carry-on on an overseas flight?
A Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force spokesperson told news.com.au restrictions on the volume of liquids, aerosols and gels were introduced in many countries around the world, including Australia, following the disruption of a terrorist plot in the UK back in 2006.
The 2006 transatlantic aircraft plot targeted various aircrafts with specific liquid explosives.
“[And as such] screening measures restrictions on what can be carried on board an aircraft have been enforced to ensure the safety and security of travellers,” the spokesperson said.
Even if you have a 100ml or more bottle of liquid that is only half filled, it will still be thrown away by security.
The only exceptions to this rule are some baby products and medications, but these must be presented to security officials along with a doctor's letter.
While these rules are non-negotiable for international flights, domestic flights around Australia don’t have the same level of restriction.
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