The New Nation - Internet Edition

Passengers flying with Ethihad Airways (EA) from Thursday have to adhere to the new hand-baggage regulation's which will be implemented at Abu Dhabi airport's Terminal 1 and 1A.

Following current policies in place in Europe and the USA, all liquids, aerosols and gels, to be carried within hand-baggage, cannot be in containers of more than 100 milliliters in size. In addition, all of the containers will have to fit within a one litre transparent and re-salable plastic bag.

In the build-up to the launch Etihad has been communicating directly with its customers to inform them about the new restrictions to avoid unnecessary delays and inconvenience at the airport.

Geert Boven, Etihad Airways' executive vice president sales and services, said: "Etihad Airways will continue to communicate with our customers and assist them as the new regulations are introduced. Staff will be available throughout the airport and information panels will be set up in various locations to reduce any unnecessary inconveniences for our customers."

The new policy, which will also see each transparent plastic bag being visually examined by airport security, complies with standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Passengers buying liquids, aerosols and gases, sold from Abu Dhabi airport Duty Free outlets and in-flight sales, will be provided with free STAB (security tamper evident bag) for their purchases.

Depending on the needs of the passenger, certain medication, baby food and special dietary products may be permitted in the hand-baggage.

The key message however will be for passengers to put as much of their baggage as possible into the hold of the aircraft.