Understanding Spain's Hybrid Security System
The Great EU Rollback of 2024
Spain's airports have installed state-of-the-art CT security scanners that promised to end the 100ml liquid restriction. However, the European Commission intervened in mid-2024, mandating a return to old liquid limits due to "technical and operational challenges."
🔧 The Technology
- • Advanced 3D CT scanners installed
- • Can detect liquid explosives automatically
- • Generate detailed 3D images of bag contents
- • Designed to eliminate 100ml restrictions
⚖️ The Regulation
- • EU authority overrides national airport operators
- • Precautionary measure for bloc-wide consistency
- • Hardware installed but software locked to old limits
- • Future changes require EU-wide consensus
🔄 What This Creates
A confusing "hybrid experience" where you may be told to leave everything in your bag due to new scanners, but oversized liquids will still be confiscated. Procedures may have changed, but the 100ml limit has not.
Airport-by-Airport Intelligence Report
Madrid-Barajas (MAD)
Madrid
Verified: September 2025
📋 Current Status
Liquid Rule: 100ml rule enforced (EU rollback)
Procedure: Fast Track lanes: Leave items in bag. Standard lanes: Remove liquids bag
⚠️ Specific Notes
- • Hardware installed but software locked to old limits
- • Terminal T2 and T4 Fast Track have new procedures
- • Default procedure still requires liquids bag removal
👥 Traveler Reports
- CT scanners operational but 100ml limit still enforced
- Instructions vary by security lane within same terminal
- Fast Track passengers can leave electronics in bags
- Confusion between staff about current procedures
Barcelona-El Prat (BCN)
Barcelona
Verified: September 2025
📋 Current Status
Liquid Rule: 100ml rule enforced (EU rollback)
Procedure: T1 & T2: "Leave everything in bag" but 100ml limit remains
⚠️ Specific Notes
- • Both terminals have new scanners but old regulations
- • Adjacent lanes may have different procedures
- • Bags with oversized liquids flagged for manual inspection
👥 Traveler Reports
- Most discussed airport in forums due to conflicting instructions
- Staff say 'leave it in' but oversized liquids still confiscated
- Signage outdated, rely on staff instructions
- Hybrid experience creates confusion for travelers
Palma de Mallorca (PMI)
Palma
Verified: September 2025
📋 Current Status
Liquid Rule: 100ml rule fully enforced
Procedure: Major modernization in progress, traditional screening continues
⚠️ Specific Notes
- • Part of modernization project but not yet operational
- • Standard security procedures in effect
- • Timeline subject to EU regulatory approval
👥 Traveler Reports
- CT scanners scheduled for late 2024/2025 implementation
- Current enforcement strict and traditional
- No relaxation of liquid allowances reported
- Modernization project ongoing but rules unchanged
Málaga-Costa del Sol (AGP)
Málaga
Verified: September 2025
📋 Current Status
Liquid Rule: 100ml rule strictly enforced
Procedure: No changes - traditional X-ray screening
⚠️ Specific Notes
- • CT upgrades planned for 2025 but not yet implemented
- • Exercise extra diligence when packing
- • Reputation for strict enforcement of all regulations
👥 Traveler Reports
- Frequently described as 'very strict' enforcement
- Multiple confiscation anecdotes for borderline items
- Staff rigorous about every aspect of 100ml rule
- No signs of scanner upgrades or procedure changes
Seville (SVQ)
Seville
Verified: September 2025
📋 Current Status
Liquid Rule: 100ml rule fully enforced
Procedure: Standard EU security procedures unchanged
⚠️ Specific Notes
- • Not included in initial CT scanner rollout phases
- • Consistent traditional security experience
- • No timeline announced for modernization
👥 Traveler Reports
- Clear-cut traditional security process
- No new scanners or relaxed procedures
- Standard 100ml rule application
- No confusion or mixed instructions reported
Valencia (VLC)
Valencia
Verified: September 2025
📋 Current Status
Liquid Rule: 100ml rule fully enforced
Procedure: Scheduled for CT upgrade in 2026
⚠️ Specific Notes
- • Part of second-phase CT scanner deployment
- • Traditional security procedures until upgrades
- • Timeline dependent on EU regulatory clearance
👥 Traveler Reports
- Current system uses traditional X-ray screening
- Standard liquid restrictions in full effect
- Future upgrades planned but not yet implemented
Security Scenarios You'll Encounter
New CT Scanner with EU Rollback
Airports with installed CT technology but enforcing old liquid limits
🏛️ Affected Airports
- • Madrid-Barajas (Fast Track)
- • Barcelona-El Prat (both terminals)
💧 Liquid Procedure
100ml container limit STILL APPLIES - bags flagged for oversized liquids
💻 Electronics Procedure
May be told to leave electronics in bag, but not guaranteed
🎯 Traveler Strategy
- Pack exactly as if 100ml rule applies everywhere
- Have liquids bag easily accessible for removal if required
- Listen carefully to staff instructions - vary by lane
- Don't assume new scanner = new rules
⚠️ Potential Confusion
- • Staff say 'leave everything in bag' but 100ml limit enforced
- • Different instructions between adjacent security lanes
- • Outdated signage may show old procedures
- • Travelers assume CT scanner = no liquid limits
Traditional X-Ray Screening
Standard security setup with established procedures
🏛️ Affected Airports
- • Málaga
- • Seville
- • Valencia
- • Most regional airports
💧 Liquid Procedure
Remove 1-liter liquids bag, place in separate tray
💻 Electronics Procedure
Remove all large electronics (laptops, tablets) for separate screening
🎯 Traveler Strategy
- Follow standard 100ml container / 1-liter bag rule
- Prepare liquids bag for easy removal
- Remove large electronics from bags
- Traditional, predictable security experience
⚠️ Potential Confusion
- • Minimal confusion due to established procedures
- • Enforcement strictness may vary by airport
- • Some airports noted as particularly rigorous
Mixed Terminal Systems
Same airport with different security systems by terminal
🏛️ Affected Airports
- • Barcelona-El Prat (T1 vs T2)
- • Madrid-Barajas (by lane)
💧 Liquid Procedure
Depends on specific terminal/lane assignment - 100ml limit universal
💻 Electronics Procedure
Varies by terminal/lane - follow staff instructions
🎯 Traveler Strategy
- Check terminal assignment before packing
- Pack for most restrictive scenario to be safe
- Be prepared for either procedure type
- Ask staff for clarification if instructions unclear
⚠️ Potential Confusion
- • Different rules within same airport
- • Terminal assignment may change
- • Staff instructions can conflict with signage
- • Passengers unsure which rules apply
Complete Liquid Classification Guide
📖 Official Definition
Aena defines restricted items as "liquids, gels, pastes, lotions, mixtures of liquid and solid substances and the contents of pressurised containers." If it can be spread, sprayed, pumped, or poured, it belongs in the liquids bag.
| Item | Classification | Rule | Packing Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stick Deodorant | Solid | Allowed in any size in hand luggage | Keep in main compartment, no special requirements |
| Spray/Roll-on Deodorant | Aerosol | Must be 100ml or less, placed in liquids bag | Check container size marking, not actual contents |
| Mascara / Liquid Eyeliner | Liquid | Must be placed inside the liquids bag | Even small tubes count toward liquids allowance |
| Lipstick / Solid Lip Balm | Solid | Allowed in any size in hand luggage | Must be truly solid at room temperature |
| Toothpaste / Creams / Gels | Gel/Paste | 100ml containers maximum, in liquids bag | Use travel-size tubes or decant into smaller containers |
| Jam / Honey / Soft Cheese | Liquid | Treated as liquids, 100ml limit applies | Pack in checked luggage or buy after security |
| Contact Lens Solution | Liquid | 100ml containers maximum, in liquids bag | Bring travel-size bottles or use daily disposables |
| Wet Wipes | Ambiguous | Not officially liquid but enforcement varies | Pack in accessible location for potential inspection |
🚨 Common Classification Mistakes
- • Container size vs. contents: 200ml bottle that's half-empty is still prohibited
- • "Solid" makeup: Items that melt/spread when heated may be considered liquids
- • Food items: Jam, honey, soft cheeses are treated as liquids regardless of consistency
- • Aerosol confusion: All pressurized containers count as liquids, including dry shampoo
Exemptions & Special Items
Medical Necessities
✅ Allowed Items
- • Prescription medications (liquid/gel)
- • Medical devices requiring liquids
- • Insulin and diabetic supplies
- • Liquid dietary supplements (prescribed)
📋 Requirements
- • Must be required for duration of trip
- • Reasonable quantity for travel period
- • Prescription or medical documentation recommended
🔍 Screening Process
Present separately to security, may be tested with specialized equipment
📄 Documentation
Doctor's letter or prescription matching passenger name strongly advised
⚠️ Limitations
- • Must be essential for health during travel
- • Documentation may be required for verification
- • Additional screening time should be expected
Baby Care
✅ Allowed Items
- • Baby formula and milk
- • Baby food (liquid/puree)
- • Sterilizing solutions
- • Breast milk
📋 Requirements
- • Traveling with infant/child
- • Reasonable quantity for journey
- • May be tested for security
🔍 Screening Process
Present separately, may be tested or opened for inspection
📄 Documentation
No special documentation required, but child must be present
⚠️ Limitations
- • Must be traveling with the child
- • Quantity must be reasonable for trip duration
- • All baby items subject to additional screening
Special Dietary Requirements
✅ Allowed Items
- • Liquid supplements (medical)
- • Special formula (medical conditions)
- • Liquid medications for chronic conditions
📋 Requirements
- • Medical necessity
- • Documentation of condition
- • Reasonable quantities only
🔍 Screening Process
Additional screening with possible testing
📄 Documentation
Medical certificate or prescription required
⚠️ Limitations
- • Must be medically necessary
- • Subject to security officer discretion
- • Additional time required for screening
Connection Flight Complexities
🔗 The Connection Rule
When connecting through multiple airports, you must follow the strictest liquid rules of any airport on your entire journey. This is especially critical with Spain's hybrid system where different airports have different capabilities.
EU to EU Connection
Rule: Follow destination airport's liquid policy
Duty-Free: STEB bags from EU airports accepted if seal intact
Example: Barcelona → Madrid → London: Pack for most restrictive airport (varies by BCN terminal)
🎯 Critical Points
- • Check CT scanner status of connection airport
- • EU rollback affects all connections
- • STEB integrity critical for duty-free items
Non-EU to EU Connection
Rule: Must clear security again, follow EU airport rules
Duty-Free: Non-EU STEB bags accepted only if resealed by EU security
Example: New York → Madrid → Seville: 100ml rule applies for Madrid-Seville leg
🎯 Critical Points
- • Passport control triggers new security screening
- • Must request re-sealing of opened duty-free bags
- • Chain of custody critical for liquid purchases
EU to Non-EU Connection
Rule: Follow final destination's liquid policies
Duty-Free: EU STEB may not be recognized by non-EU security
Example: Madrid → Morocco: Check Morocco's liquid import rules
🎯 Critical Points
- • Destination country rules may be stricter
- • STEB system may not be recognized
- • Research final destination requirements
💼 STEB (Duty-Free Bag) Rules
What is STEB?
Security Tamper-Evident Bag for duty-free liquid purchases. Red-bordered, sealed bag with receipt visible inside.
Critical Rules
Never open until final destination. If opened by security, request official re-sealing for connections.
Forum-Tested Packing Strategies
The Solid Swap Strategy
Replace liquid toiletries with solid alternatives to avoid liquids bag entirely
✅ Benefits
- • Frees up entire 1-liter liquids bag for essentials
- • No size restrictions on solid items
- • More environmentally friendly
- • Often more cost-effective long-term
🛠️ Implementation
- • Switch to shampoo and conditioner bars
- • Use solid deodorant instead of spray/roll-on
- • Try toothpaste tablets or powder
- • Use solid perfume or fragrance sticks
💡 Forum Tips
- • Lush and ethique make excellent travel bars
- • Solid perfumes last longer and don't leak
- • Toothpaste tablets dissolve instantly with water
- • Keep bars in small containers to prevent mess
Strategic Decanting Method
Transfer favorite products into compliant travel containers
✅ Benefits
- • Use preferred brands and products
- • More economical than buying travel sizes
- • Reduce plastic waste from single-use containers
- • Customize quantities for trip length
🛠️ Implementation
- • Invest in quality, leak-proof travel containers
- • Label containers clearly with contents
- • Test containers at home for leaks
- • Leave some space for pressure changes
💡 Forum Tips
- • Silicone containers are flexible and leak-proof
- • Use masking tape labels that won't fall off
- • Fill containers 80% full to allow for expansion
- • Keep original product labels if questioned by security
Airport Purchase Strategy
Buy liquids after security to avoid restrictions entirely
✅ Benefits
- • No size limitations on post-security purchases
- • Guaranteed compliance with all regulations
- • Can buy large bottles of Spanish specialties
- • Useful for long trips or connections
🛠️ Implementation
- • Research airport shop availability
- • Budget for higher airport prices
- • Understand STEB (duty-free bag) rules for connections
- • Plan timing for shopping before boarding
💡 Forum Tips
- • Spanish airports have excellent duty-free wine selections
- • Airport pharmacies stock travel essentials
- • Food courts have water fountains for bottle refills
- • Download airport maps to locate shops efficiently
🧳 The "When in Doubt" Packing Method
Before Leaving Home
- • Prepare liquids bag at home, not at airport
- • Use metric measurements (100ml, 1 liter)
- • Pack bag at top of carry-on for easy access
- • Bring backup ziplock bags for potential transfers
At the Airport
- • Listen carefully to staff instructions by lane
- • Have liquids bag ready for removal if required
- • Don't assume CT scanner = new rules
- • Be prepared for either procedure type
Comprehensive FAQ
technologycriticalWhy do Spanish airports have CT scanners but still enforce the 100ml rule?
Why do Spanish airports have CT scanners but still enforce the 100ml rule?
The EU mandated a bloc-wide return to 100ml limits in mid-2024 due to 'technical and operational challenges' with the new scanner technology. Spain installed the hardware but must follow EU regulations, creating a hybrid system where procedures may change but liquid limits remain.
practicalcriticalWhat's the golden rule for packing liquids for Spanish airports in 2025?
What's the golden rule for packing liquids for Spanish airports in 2025?
Always pack as if the 100ml rule applies everywhere. This guarantees compliance regardless of which airport, terminal, or security lane you encounter. It's the only foolproof strategy during this transition period.
practicalcriticalAt Barcelona, how do I know if I'll get T1 or T2 security procedures?
At Barcelona, how do I know if I'll get T1 or T2 security procedures?
Both terminals now have CT scanners, but enforcement of the 100ml limit is universal due to EU rollback. Staff may tell you to 'leave everything in your bag,' but any liquids over 100ml will still be confiscated. Pack according to 100ml rule regardless of terminal.
connectionsimportantCan I bring large bottles of Spanish olive oil or wine in hand luggage?
Can I bring large bottles of Spanish olive oil or wine in hand luggage?
Only if purchased after security in the secure 'airside' area and sealed in an official STEB (Security Tamper-Evident Bag). If you're connecting to another flight, the STEB must remain sealed until your final destination, or items will be confiscated.
connectionsimportantWhat happens if security opens my duty-free STEB during a connection?
What happens if security opens my duty-free STEB during a connection?
Immediately inform the security officer that you have another connecting flight. They will screen the items and reseal them in a new STEB if cleared. If you fail to request re-sealing, items will be confiscated at the next security point.
practicalimportantAre there airports in Spain where enforcement is more 'relaxed'?
Are there airports in Spain where enforcement is more 'relaxed'?
While traveler perceptions vary, relying on 'relaxed' enforcement is high-risk. Málaga is frequently noted as particularly strict. Enforcement can vary by staff, time of day, and security alerts. The only safe strategy is full compliance with written rules.
regulationsusefulWhat counts as a liquid that I might not expect?
What counts as a liquid that I might not expect?
The official definition is very broad: 'liquids, gels, pastes, lotions, mixtures of liquid and solid substances.' This includes jam, honey, soft cheese, lip gloss, and even items that become liquid when heated. If it can be spread, sprayed, or poured, put it in your liquids bag.
practicalusefulCan I use a reusable transparent toiletry bag instead of a ziplock?
Can I use a reusable transparent toiletry bag instead of a ziplock?
Yes, most travelers report success with quality transparent, resealable bags. Key criteria are transparency (contents clearly visible) and proper sealing ability. However, be prepared to transfer contents to an airport-provided bag if requested by security.
exemptionsusefulWhat medical exemptions apply to liquid restrictions?
What medical exemptions apply to liquid restrictions?
Liquid medicines, insulin, and medical supplies required for your trip are exempt from 100ml limits. Present them separately to security with supporting documentation (prescription/doctor's letter). This applies at all airports regardless of scanner type.
regulationsusefulWhen will the 100ml rule actually end in Spain?
When will the 100ml rule actually end in Spain?
There's no official timeline. The EU must first resolve the 'technical challenges' with CT scanners and approve bloc-wide policy changes. This will be a slow, deliberate process requiring consensus across all EU member states, not individual airport readiness.
Ultimate Travel Checklists
🏠 Pre-Flight Checklist
Item Audit
- ☐ Identify all liquids, aerosols, gels, pastes
- ☐ Check container capacities (not contents)
- ☐ Verify 100ml maximum size markings
- ☐ Count total items for 1-liter bag fit
Optimization
- ☐ Switch to solid alternatives where possible
- ☐ Decant large products into travel containers
- ☐ Separate medical items and documentation
- ☐ Empty personal water bottles completely
Final Preparation
- ☐ Pack liquids bag at top of carry-on
- ☐ Ensure bag seals completely without overstuffing
- ☐ Pack electronics cables neatly
- ☐ Review specific airport procedures
✈️ At Airport Checklist
Security Approach
- ☐ Have liquids bag easily accessible
- ☐ Listen carefully to staff instructions
- ☐ Be prepared for either procedure type
- ☐ Don't assume based on airport/terminal
If Traditional Screening
- ☐ Remove liquids bag, place in separate tray
- ☐ Remove large electronics from bags
- ☐ Present medical items separately
- ☐ Keep boarding pass and ID ready
If CT Scanner Lane
- ☐ Follow staff instructions exactly
- ☐ May leave electronics in bag if told
- ☐ Still present medical exemptions separately
- ☐ Remember 100ml rule still applies
🔄 For Connecting Flights
Before First Flight
Research all airports on your itinerary, pack for the most restrictive
During Connection
Check STEB integrity, request re-sealing if opened
Final Destination
Follow destination country's import rules for liquids
Key Takeaways for 2025 Travel
⚠️ Critical Understanding
- • CT scanners installed ≠ liquid restrictions lifted
- • EU rollback means 100ml rule universally enforced
- • Procedures may change but liquid limits have not
- • Different airports = different experiences
- • Connection flights follow strictest airport rules
✅ Success Strategies
- • Pack for 100ml rule everywhere for safety
- • Research specific airports on your route
- • Use solid alternatives to maximize space
- • Keep receipts and documentation ready
- • Stay flexible with security procedures
🔮 Looking Forward
The end of liquid restrictions will come when the EU resolves technical challenges and approves bloc-wide policy changes. This requires consensus across all member states, not just individual airport readiness. Until then, the 100ml rule remains the safe standard.
Sources & Verification
Last verified: September 15, 2025
Official Sources:
- • Aena (Spanish airport operator) official announcements
- • European Commission security directives
- • Spanish Aviation Safety Agency updates
- • Individual airport security confirmations
- • EU aviation security regulations
Traveler Intelligence:
- • Reddit travel community reports
- • Airport forum discussions and experiences
- • Social media traveler updates
- • Direct verification with airport staff
Regulatory Framework:
- • EU Regulation 300/2008 on aviation security
- • Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998
- • Spanish Royal Decree on airport security
Important Disclaimer: Airport security rules can change with little notice due to security concerns or regulatory updates. Always verify current requirements with your airline or departure airport before travel. When in doubt, follow the most restrictive regulations on your itinerary to ensure smooth travel.