Restrictions on Liquids, Gels and Aerosols

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why were liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on baggage banned on August 10, 2006?
2. The ban was relaxed on September 26, 2006, but restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols still apply. Why was this done?
3. How long will the current restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols be in place?
4. What are the current restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on baggage?
5. Do these small amounts of liquids, gels and aerosols have to be in their original containers?
6. Why a 90 ml or 90 g (3 oz) limit in only one 1 litre (1 quart) plastic bag?
7. Are there any exceptions to the restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols?
8. Why does the plastic bag have to be clear, closed and resealable?
9. How can passengers bring larger containers of liquids, gels and aerosols on their trips?
10. If passengers purchase duty free liquids, gels or aerosols on an aircraft, will they be allowed to take them through the screening checkpoint if they are connecting to another destination?
11. How can a passenger dispose of items that cannot be brought through the screening checkpoint?

Q1: Why were liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on baggage banned on August 10, 2006?

A: The events that occurred in London, England revealed that liquids, gels and aerosols can be used to make explosives and other threat items. This ban was implemented to ensure that passenger safety and security is maintained.

Q2: The ban was relaxed on September 26, 2006, but restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols still apply. Why was this done?

A: In recent weeks, the Government of Canada has been working closely with its stakeholders in the aviation industry and with international partners to further analyse the threat and ensure the continued safety and security of Canadians. The Government of Canada felt that some adjustments to the security measures put in place last month could be made. The remaining restrictions will maintain security while facilitating safe, efficient and convenient air travel.

Q3: How long will the current restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols be in place?

A: The restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols are expected to remain for the foreseeable future. Additional adjustments may be made over time and passengers should always check for the latest information available before travelling.

Q4: What are the current restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on baggage?

A: Passengers will be permitted to bring liquids, gels and aerosols through security screening at Canadian airports provided that the items are packaged in containers with a capacity of 90 ml / 90 grams (3 oz.) or less, and that the containers fit comfortably in one clear, closed and resealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre (1 quart). Examples of such products are makeup and toiletry items, jello and yogurt. One bag per passenger will be permitted.

Q5: Do these small amounts of liquids, gels and aerosols have to be in their original containers?

A: No, liquids, gels and aerosols can be stored in other containers as long as the size of each container does not exceed the 90 ml or 90 g (3 oz) limit and the liquid, gel or aerosol does not constitute a dangerous good or non-permitted item. Examples of dangerous goods or non-permitted items are animal repellent sprays, caustic materials, firecrackers, gas refills for curling irons, static guard and paint.

Q6: Why a 90 ml or 90 g (3 oz) limit in only one 1 litre (1 quart) plastic bag?

A: The Government of Canada made the decision on these limits based on consultations with partners both nationally and internationally and analysis of the threat.

Q7: Are there any exceptions to the restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols?

A: Some articles are exempted from the 90 ml or 90 g (3 oz) limit and do not have to be placed in a plastic bag. However, passengers must declare all such items to the Screening Officer and additional screening may apply. The exceptions are as follows:

• Baby formula/milk/food in small containers if an infant 2 years or younger is travelling;
• Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket/boarding pass;
• Liquids, gels or aerosols that are essential non-prescription medicines, such as homeopathic products, Tylenol, syrup, decongestant spray, gel-based nutritional supplements, saline solution or eye care products. To facilitate the screening process, passengers are encouraged to present documentation supporting a medical condition, e.g. a doctor's note.
• Juice or gels for passengers who indicate a need for such items for diabetic or other medical conditions; and
• Gel packs for medicine requiring refrigeration, as long as the passenger provides a doctor's or pharmacist's note justifying the necessity and the name on the note matches the person's ticket/boarding pass.

Q8: Why does the plastic bag have to be clear, closed and resealable?

A: It is to facilitate a visual inspection by screening officers and to expedite the screening process.

Q9: How can passengers bring larger containers of liquids, gels and aerosols on their trips?

A: Larger containers (i.e. greater than 90 ml or 90 g (3 oz)) of liquids, gels and aerosols can be placed in checked baggage as long as they do not constitute a dangerous good or non-permitted item.

Q10: If passengers purchase duty free liquids, gels or aerosols on an aircraft, will they be allowed to take them through the screening checkpoint if they are connecting to another destination?

A: The restrictions on liquids, gels and aerosols apply to duty free items as well. Passengers should contact their air carrier to make appropriate arrangements.

Q11: How can a passenger dispose of items that cannot be brought through the screening checkpoint?

A: Passengers can dispose of non-permitted items that cannot be brought through the screening checkpoint by placing it in their checked baggage, leaving it with a friend or family member who is not travelling or by leaving it at the screening checkpoint. Passengers can also inquire with the airport about mailing or storage options, but these options may not be available at all airports.