TSA Teases End Of Limits On Liquids In Carry-On Luggage

Forbes

20-07-2025

The Department of Homeland Security recently teased the idea of ending its limits of liquids passing through TSA airport security. getty
Another major change may be coming to TSA airport security protocols as it considers ending another of its long-standing policies.
Recently, the Department of Homeland Security teased the end of the limits on liquids coming through airport security, with Secretary Kristi Noem saying that she is 'questioning' the current limits on liquids and that a change 'may be the next big announcement' concerning the department's review of TSA policies.
The statement comes on the heels of several other recent changes to TSA policies. For example, the department recently ended the requirement for travelers to remove their shoes, enhanced perks for military members, and created a dedicated family lane at security in select airports.
No indication has been given as to what new rules might replace the current rules that are in place. Currently, the TSA limits the amount of liquid that can be brought through security in hand luggage to 3.4 ounces, and Noem did not specify how things would change.
Would ending the policy mean that any amount of liquids would be acceptable? Or, would it mean an increase in the limited amount?
The answer is unclear at the moment, as no further details have been provided beyond the tease. It's also possible that the rules go unchanged after further review. Noem wants new technology to fuel changes.
Noem said that new advances in technology will hopefully change the way we view airport security in general, by allowing the TSA to maintain a high level of safety with less detailed rules and a more streamlined process overall.
'Hopefully the future of an airport, where I'm looking to go, is that you walk in the door with your carry-on suitcase, you walk through a scanner and go right to your flight,' Noem said. 'It takes you one minute.'
The TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule was originally introduced in 2006 (check out the full timeline here). The rule was introduced in response to an unsuccessful attempt by a passenger to detonate liquid explosives on a transatlantic flight.
If a change does end up coming for the liquid limits, it will cement 2025 as a new era of TSA airport security, with two of its most long-standing measures —taking off shoes and taking out liquids—going by the wayside. For now, we wait and see.