THERE were massive queues and delays at Larnaca airport yesterday morning as new European Union regulations came into effect, limiting the amount of liquids that passengers are allowed to take onto flights.
Queues developed at security and passport controls, causing delays to four Cyprus Airways flights leaving between 8 and 9am.
According to Communications Minister Harris Thrassou, these delays were not a matter of concern.
“Cyprus, like all member states, is following this new directive imposed by the EU. Some minor delays are expected until passengers become accustomed to the new regulations, something which also occurred in airports in the UK a few months ago.”
The longest delay was 40 minutes.
Passengers found themselves increasingly concerned that they would miss their flights as they were stuck in queues as long as 500 metres during the peak departure hours. Airport staff worked overtime to prevent the delays from escalating, but tempers frayed among some passengers.
Androulla Christodoulou, the manager of the Civil Aviation Service Department at Paphos airport, yesterday reminded passengers what they were allowed to take on board a flight. “Passengers are not allowed to take with them liquids of more than 100ml per container. Liquids allowed in these amounts include shower and hair jells, shaving foam, perfumes, lotions and cosmetic products.”
Exceptions are made regarding medication and baby foods, Christodoulou added: “For example on a flight to the UK, which takes about four hours, a mother can take food to feed her baby. On the issue of medication, passengers will be allowed to take it on the plane with them, provided that they take with them the doctor’s prescription.”
In order for liquids to be allowed on board, they must be carried in one clear plastic re-sealable or zip top bag. Bags should be no bigger than 20x20cm or the equivalent of one litre in capacity. For the time being, such bags are provided to travellers at both airports. The Civil Aviation authorities suggested to passengers that they refrain from taking unnecessary items with them and attempt to pack all liquids in their suitcases, unless they are essential. Carry-on sealed duty free goods are still permitted.
These new rules are the result of restrictions imposed on passengers at Heathrow during the summer after a liquid bomb scare. Initially, British authorities had banned all hand luggage and liquids on planes, but these strict measures have been rescinded. The European Union has now imposed a minimum standard that each country can put on passengers so that all 25 member states comply with the same regulations. Each country is allowed to impose stricter measures if they wish.
