Aviation

New EU Carry-On Rules Begin September 2024: What to Expect

Starting Sunday, September 1, 2024, the European Union (EU) will enforce new air travel regulations aimed at standardizing hand luggage rules and liquid carry-on policies across all airlines operating within the bloc.

This initiative, introduced by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport, seeks to bring uniformity to previously disparate rules concerning hand luggage size, weight, and liquid restrictions across European airlines and airports.

Until now, travelers in Europe faced varying rules depending on the airline and airport, often leading to confusion and inconvenience. The new regulations are set to eliminate these inconsistencies, providing a single set of guidelines for all airlines in the EU.

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One of the key changes is the reinstatement of the 100mL liquid restriction for carry-ons, which aligns with the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) 3-1-1 rule in the United States. This means that liquids in containers larger than 100mL will no longer be permitted in carry-on luggage. This decision mirrors a similar move by the UK government in June, which had drawn criticism from travelers accustomed to more lenient liquid rules.

The introduction of these new regulations is anticipated to cause extended delays at European airports in the coming weeks, particularly as passengers adjust to the revised rules. This change comes ahead of another significant update: starting November 10, European border stations will cease stamping passports and will instead use a biometric-based Entry-Exit System (EES).

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This system will use digital photographs and fingerprints to register travelers from non-EU countries. Despite the stricter liquid rules, there will be exceptions for essential medical supplies, special dietary products, and baby food, which will still be allowed in larger quantities. The EU plans to uphold these new regulations until all airports within the region implement uniform screening technology.

Travelers are advised to prepare for the upcoming changes and stay informed about the new hand luggage rules to ensure a smoother journey through European airports.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.