The European Commission backed new aviation security rules today that will restrict the amount of liquids passengers may take on board planes.
The rules, expected to come into force in early November, allow passengers to carry on toiletry items such as toothpaste, contact lens solution and perfume but not large drink containers, except those purchased after security checks.
Size limits for carry-on bags will come into force in six months.
Security measures were tightened after authorities in London said in August they had foiled a plot to bomb flights bound for the United States using liquid explosives.
The United States welcomed the new rules, proposed last week by experts from EU member states to unify security measures across the 25-nation bloc.
Passengers will be allowed to bring on board one resealable plastic bag of a maximum size of one litre in which liquid items could be stored. Liquids would have to fit into containers that were 100ml or smaller.
Certain exceptions will apply for medicines, baby food and other dietary needs, the EC said.
Carry-on bags will be limited to 56 cm by 45 cm by 25 cm.
Exemptions on the size of hand luggage will be possible for items such as musical instruments and cameras.