In July 2025, ACI EUROPE welcomed a landmark decision by the European Union to lift the long-standing 100ml restriction on Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs) in cabin baggage for flights departing from EU airports equipped with advanced security screening technology developed by Smiths Detection. This move, which now permits passengers to carry up to two (2) litres of LAGs, marks a significant shift in aviation security policy and passenger convenience. While the change directly affects European airports, its implications extend far beyond the continent — particularly to Africa, where airports are increasingly integrated into global aviation networks.
African airports, many of which serve as international gateways, are likely to face mounting pressure to align with the new EU standards. As European airports begin offering a more streamlined and passenger-friendly experience, African hubs may be perceived as outdated if they continue enforcing the 100ml rule.
This could influence traveller preferences, especially among business and leisure passengers who frequently transit between Africa and Europe. The lifting of restrictions will likely enhance the passenger experience, particularly for those travelling from EU airports with advanced security screening equipment. African airports may need to consider similar measures to improve the passenger experience and remain competitive.
Travellers accustomed to relaxed liquid restrictions in Europe may expect similar convenience in Africa. African airports may face increased competition from EU airports that have adopted advanced security screening technology. With the ability to carry larger quantities of LAGs, passengers may prefer to fly out of EU airports, potentially diverting traffic and revenue away from African airports.
African airports that lag in adopting advanced screening technology may lose ground to more modern hubs in the Middle East or Europe. As a result, airports in the continent may need to reassess and upgrade their security measures to remain competitive. This could involve investing in similar advanced security screening equipment, such as Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB), to allow for larger quantities of LAGs in cabin bags.
The EU’s decision hinges on the deployment of Smiths Detection’s Computed Tomography (CT) scanners, which offer 360-degree views of luggage contents and eliminate the need to remove liquids and electronics. For African airports, replicating this setup presents both opportunities and challenges.
The EU’s decision highlights the importance of harmonizing regulatory frameworks to facilitate air travel. African airports and regulatory bodies may need to review their own regulations and security protocols to ensure consistency and competitiveness.
It is worth noting that CT scanners are expensive, and many African airports operate under constrained budgets. Advanced screening equipment requires robust infrastructure, including power supply, trained personnel, and maintenance capabilities. This calls for budget and planning to ensure that airports in the continent step up to meet the emerging challenge.
Despite these challenges, the EU’s move could catalyze regional cooperation across Africa. Pan-African aviation bodies such as the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the Airports Council International Africa (ACI Africa) may seize this moment to advocate for harmonized security standards and pooled resources.
Collaboration between African airports and EU airports could lead to knowledge sharing, improved security protocols, and increased efficiency. Also, countries could collaborate to negotiate bulk purchases of screening equipment. Joint initiatives could be launched to train security personnel across the continent. African states may work together to develop unified aviation security policies that mirror global best practices.
By adopting similar security protocols, African airports can improve the passenger experience, increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Relaxing liquid restrictions has a direct impact on passenger satisfaction. For African airports, adopting similar policies could enhance the travel experience and support tourism — a vital economic sector for many countries. Advanced screening reduces bottlenecks at checkpoints, improving airport efficiency. Tourists may view African airports as more modern and traveller-friendly. Consequently, a smoother airport experience can encourage repeat visits and longer stays.
Governments across Africa must weigh the benefits of modernization against the realities of cost and implementation. The EU’s decision underscores the importance of strategic planning in aviation security. While Smiths Detection’s technology has been recertified by the EU, reliance on a single manufacturer raises concerns about monopolization and technological dependence. African airports must evaluate all the implications of making their security infrastructure too closely tied to one vendor.
Ultimately, the EU’s policy shift is a reminder that aviation is a global enterprise. African airports are not isolated — they are part of a vast network where changes in one region can ripple across continents.
Ekelem Airhihen, an accredited mediator, has an MBA from the Lagos Business School. He is a member, ACI Airport Non-aeronautical Revenue Activities Committee; his interests are in market research, customer experience and performance measurement, negotiation, strategy and data and business analytics. He can be reached on ekyair@yahoo.com and +2348023125396 (WhatsApp only).
