Soon no more having to unpack your suitcase when you arrive at Malaga airport control: Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport is progressively implementing new X-ray scanners featuring 3D technology (similar to medical CT scanners) at its security checkpoints. This upgrade allows for detailed baggage inspection without requiring passengers to remove their belongings.
We tell you all the news about regulation for liquids and laptops at Malaga airport.
Current status for the 2026 high season
In response to numerous comments on this topic (see our comments section), we are updating this article in June 2026, ahead of the high season on the Costa del Sol.
While new hand-luggage scanners have already been introduced at the major hubs of Madrid and Barcelona, their rollout at Malaga Airport is currently underway on a phased basis.
In other words, passengers in Malaga are currently facing an uncertain situation. A mixed system is currently in place: there are security lanes with new scanners and others with traditional scanners.
As this is a phased transition, whether or not you are required to remove your belongings will depend on the specific security lane assigned to you. You must always follow the instructions given by security staff.
Especially during peak season, they will direct you to a specific lane based on passenger flow, and you will not be able to choose it yourself.
This certainly does nothing to help travellers know how to organize their carry-on luggage in advance. Instead, it only adds confusion and stress when passing through security checkpoints.
Recommendations for peak season
- High passenger volume: July marks the peak of the summer season, with over 550 daily flights operating at Malaga airport. Terminals reach maximum traffic capacity.
- Recommended arrival time: Arrive at the airport at least two and a half hours before domestic or European flights, and three hours before international flights.
- Our recommendation: until the new scanners are fully implemented across all security screening lines, it is best to stick to the old carry-on rules to save yourself stress and headaches.
To avoid issues on your next trip, keep in mind
- Liquids and devices: If you go through a security checkpoint with the new scanners, you will no longer be required to remove liquids (exceeding 100 ml) or electronic devices from your bag.
- Traditional checkpoints: If you are directed to a line with a standard scanner, you will still be required to remove electronic devices (laptops, tablets) and carry liquids in a transparent bag with a capacity of up to one litre, in individual containers of no more than 100 ml.
What do I no longer have to take out of the suitcase at the checkpoint?
Liquids, perfumes, creams, aerosols, foams, gels, shampoo and toothpaste will not have to be outside your luggage to go through the scanner at Spanish airports.
Currently, they still have to be in individual containers with a capacity of no more than 100 millilitres. They have to be in a transparent plastic bag with an opening/closing system. And a capacity of no more than 1 litre (bag of approximately 20 x 20 centimetres).
This bag must be placed on trays at security control, outside the baggage. Only one bag can be transported per passenger, including children.
Currently, the only drinks, cosmetics and perfumes allowed are those purchased at the airport. These are in approved and sealed security bags, which contain the purchase receipt.
How much liquid can you carry in hand luggage?
This point is not yet specified. It refers to one of the most annoying restrictions on hand luggage: the limit of 100 millilitres of liquid in individual containers. These must go in a transparent plastic bag with a capacity of no more than one litre.
While some sources of information already talk about being able to carry toiletries such as colognes, creams or makeup of medium or family size, the limit of 100 millilitres is currently still in force.
The new scanners would make it possible to eliminate this restriction. But for now AENA sources consulted say that this decision will depend on what the European Union dictates.
What can’t I take in hand luggage?
The modification of the restrictions, however, continues without affecting a series of products that remain prohibited for travel in Spanish airports: weapons (pistols, crossbows, etc.), discharge and neutralizing devices, such as tear gas or sprays, sharp objects (axes, knives or scissors with a shaft of more than 6cm).
You cannot transport blunt objects such as: Golf bats, chemical and toxic substances or explosive and flammable substances.
State-of-the-art technology: 3D image scanners
The scanners use a technology called EDSCB (Explosive Automatic Detection System for Cabin Baggage). They are equipment with X-ray technology that generates high-resolution 3D images that allow detailed visual inspection.
In this way, control time is considerably reduced, saving time for the traveller, without losing security in the procedure.
They are already testing new scanners at London’s Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports. The UK government has changed security regulations in 2024. In the US, they have tested new devices at fifteen airports, including Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego and Chicago.
Easing restrictions on air travel
In Europe, the European Commission has called for the relaxation of these restrictions imposed after the attacks on the Twin Towers in New York in 2001.
In 2006, they established liquid control following a foiled terrorist attack by Al Qaeda against seven planes taking off from Heathrow. The terrorists had planned to use explosives concealed in drink cans. The international association of airlines IATA also supports the proposal to gradually ease the restrictions.
Regulation at Malaga airport, as well as at any other airport, is constantly evolving to adapt to technological advances or potential threats.
Hi mid November will the new 3D scanners be available in all scanners
Hi Debbie!
No, the new 3D X-ray security scanners will not necessarily be active at every single security lane at Malaga Airport by November, as the rollout happens progressively across lanes and checkpoints.
Kind regards, Airmalaga
My husband has to take Carticure Plus (we have the prescription) in powder form daily, can he take these through security at Malaga Airport. If so is there a restriction on how may sachets he can take, each sachet holds approximately 12 grams.
Hello Linda, this it what we found regarding your question.
Yes, your husband can absolutely bring his Carticure Plus sachets through security at Malaga Airport. Under European Union airport regulations passengers are fully permitted to travel with essential medications for personal use in their hand luggage.
Powder Quantity Restrictions
• No strict quantity limit: Unlike liquids, there is no official volume restriction for non-controlled prescription medications in solid or powder form.
• Reasonable supply rule: You are allowed to carry a “reasonable amount” required for the duration of your trip, plus a small extra supply to account for potential travel delays.
• Since each sachet is only 12 grams, carrying enough daily sachets for a standard holiday or trip will not trigger any bulk powder restrictions (which usually only apply to loose, non-medicinal powders over 350 grams).
Tips for a Smooth Security Experience
1. Keep the Prescription Handy: Always carry the official medical prescription or a doctor’s letter with you. It must match the name on your husband’s boarding pass.
2. Use Original Packaging: Keep the sachets inside their original Carticure Plus box with the pharmacy label attached, if possible. This helps security staff quickly identify the substance.
3. Declare at Security: Place the medication in a separate small bag inside your carry-on. When you reach the Malaga Airport security trays, remove the box and prescription and present them separately to the security officer to prevent any unnecessary bag searches.
Kind regards,
Airmalaga
Hi, im travelling from malaga airport on july 10th do i have to take out my disposable vape out of my carry on bag?
Hi Liepa!
Yes, you must take your disposable vape out of your carry-on and place it in the security tray for screening at Málaga Airport. Vapes must be kept in your hand luggage due to the lithium battery fire risk, and security will require it to be scanned separately just like laptops and liquids.
Kind regards,
Airmalaga
Hi,my wife and two children are travelling through Malaga Airport early Monday morning to Ireland.My daughter is Type 1 Diabetic and cannot go through the scanners,plus her spare insulin pump and sensors cannot go though the xray/3D scanner machine either.Do you have any specific procedures in place for this to make our journey home more pleasant as on some occasions at many airports it can be extremely stressful.Thanks Thomas..
Hi Thomas! This is what we found, best regards! Airmalaga
Malaga Airport (and Aena as the operator) has specific accommodation procedures for passengers traveling with Type 1 Diabetes. Your daughter will not be forced to go through full-body scanners or put her pumps and sensors through the X-ray/3D machines
Using the Aena Invisible Disabilities Badge (Distintivo de discapacidades invisibles) is an excellent strategy.
Core Benefits of the Badge at Malaga Airport
• Access to Priority Lanes: Presenting this badge allows your entire family group to bypass the main, high-traffic queue and enter via the dedicated family and Reduced Mobility (PMR) security lanes.
• Calmer Environment: The priority lanes are much less crowded, which minimizes sensory overload and gives you a calmer space to explain the medical exemptions to the guards.
• Trained Staff: Guards manning the family/PMR lanes are specifically trained to handle medical equipment, pediatric needs, and alternative physical screening processes with greater patience.
• Silent Lounge Access: At Malaga Airport, holding an invisible disabilities badge allows you to request access to the terminal’s Silent Lounge (Sala Silenciosa) through Passenger Services if your daughter needs a quiet space to manage her glucose levels away from terminal noise
How to Get Your Badge Before Monday
You must apply online before you arrive at the terminal. The system generates the badge instantly.
Link here https://www.aena.es/en/passengers/travellers/passengers-with-special-needs/invisible-disabilities/invisible-disabilities-badge.html
1. Open the Portal: Go directly to the official Aena Hidden Disabilities Portal. Use the dropdown menu in the upper corner to switch the language to English.
2. Input Flight Details: Fill out the form by providing your daughter’s name, your airline, the flight number, and your exact departure date.
3. Download to Your Phone: Once submitted, Aena will instantly email you a PDF containing a QR code.
4. Present at Security: You do not need to print it out or wear it openly if you do not want to. Simply pull up the PDF on your smartphone and present it to the attendant guarding the entrance to the family/PRM security lane at Malag
You can find additional information on the official AENA website
https://www.aena.es/en/passengers/travellers/passengers-with-special-needs/persons-with-medical-needs.html
Actionable Steps for a Smooth Security Experience
• Declare the Devices Early: Approach the security officer before placing any bags on the belt and explicitly state that your daughter has Type 1 Diabetes and wears medical devices.
• Request a Manual Pat-Down: Inform the staff that your daughter cannot walk through full-body scanners or metal detectors while wearing her devices. She is entitled to a private or manual hand-search instead. [
• Avoid X-raying Spares: Advise security that her spare insulin pump, sensors, and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) cannot pass through the 3D X-ray scanner. These should be visually inspected or tested for explosive trace detection (ETD) by hand.
• Carry a Medical Letter: Bring an official letter from your GP or diabetes nurse (ideally in English and Spanish) detailing her condition and the medical equipment she requires
• Prepare Diabetes Equipment Cards: Many device manufacturers (such as Medtronic or Dexcom) provide specific “Airport Information Cards” in multiple languages. Presenting these to security officers in Malaga is highly recommended.
Is it ok to take 3 x 100ml bottles of cologne through in a plastic bag?
Dear Matt,
As long as those 3 bottles fit in your plastic bag, you won’t have any issues.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Do hair straighteners also have to be out of the cabin bag in the tray?.
Hello Sady! Yes, at Málaga Airport (AGP) and other Spanish airports, hair straighteners generally must be removed from your cabin bag and placed separately in the security tray, along with laptops and tablets.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Can you confirm that liquids no longer need to be outside of hand luggage in clear plastic bags?
Hello Cormac!
Unfortunately, not yet. You still have to use the plastic bags outside your hand luggage.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi there, thanks for your reply. It may be useful to update the information on your website that indicates that liquids could stay inside hand luggage from 2025. I realise there must have been delays with the introduction of scanners since that update was posted.
Hello Cormac!
In response to numerous comments on this topic (see our comments section), we have updated this article in June 2026, ahead of the high season on the Costa del Sol.
Thank you very much & kind regards!
Airmalaga.com
Its the 20th June 2026. Whatbis the latest status for taking liquids through. I’d read it was hoped the new scanners would be ready by end of june/July.
Hello Mrs Holloway!
We just updated our article Regulations for liquids and laptops at Malaga airport.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Can I take jars of olives in my hand luggage to uk through Malaga Airport
Hello Sue!
Yes, but only if the total volume of the liquid (the brine or oil) in each jar is 100ml or less. Because the olives are submerged in liquid, airport security classifies them as liquids. If the jars are larger than 100ml, they will be confiscated at Malaga Airport.
Consider these key points before you travel:
• The 100ml Rule: Every individual jar (including its contents and liquid) must be under 100ml. All jars must fit inside a single, clear, resealable 1-liter plastic bag.
• Vacuum-Packed Alternative: If you have larger quantities, consider buying vacuum-packed olives (with no free liquid) from the local markets or supermarkets in Spain. These are generally treated as solid food and are much more likely to pass through security without issue.
• Duty-Free: If you buy larger jars at the Malaga Airport duty-free shops after passing security, they will be placed in a sealed security tamper-evident bag and you will be allowed to take them on the plane.
• Checked Luggage: If your jars are larger than 100ml, your best option is to securely wrap them in bubble wrap and pack them in your checked/hold luggage. There are no strict volume limits for liquids in the hold.
Kind regards,
Airmalaga
Hello,
Travelling soon
Is the restriction still 1l max liquids (100ml per container) for hand luggage, and do they need to all fit into the small clear bag?
Hello Rebecca!
At Malaga Airport the standard liquid rules remain in place. You are restricted to 100ml per container, and all containers must fit comfortably into one clear, resealable plastic bag (maximum capacity of 1 litre, measuring roughly 20×20 cm). Each passenger is limited to one bag.
Kind regards,
Airmalaga
Hi,
I’m traveling tomorrow. May I bring 1l plastic bottle with mineral water to the security point and carry it thru?
Thanks
Hi Jiri!
No, you cannot take water bottles through the security checkpoint. However, you can take the empty bottle through and then refill it at one of the drinking water fountains available in the boarding area.
Kind regards,
Airmalaga
Flying from Malaga to TFN tomorrow, can I take food in my hand luggage?
Hi Maureen!
Yes, you can bring solid food, but please do not bring liquids exceeding 100 ml.
Best regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi
I have bought a new aftershave in malaga. It is unopened as yet. It is 125 ml. Can i take it in hand luggage?
Dear Noel,
Unfortunately, no. Airport security rules strictly limit liquids in hand luggage to containers of 100ml or less.
Because your aftershave is 125ml, it will not be allowed through security, even if it is completely unopened. You will need to pack it in your checked hold luggage to avoid having it confiscated.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi, I’m travelling on Wednesday morning. Are the new scanners installed yet? Thanks
Hi Inoke, no, so far we have no updates on the new scanners.
Kind regards,
Airmalaga
Hi . I’m travelling next weekend. Are the scanners installed yet? Thanks.
Hello Jennifer,
Unfortunately the scanners are not available yet.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Are the new scanners installed yet?
Hi John,
I am afraid they are not installed yet.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
If my flight is at 6:00 am can I come to the airport the night before?
Hello Mona,
Yes, the airport is open 24/7.
Regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi, I’m travelling from Málaga next week, 24th October. Have the new scanners been installed yet? Thanks
Hi Gabby,
Unfortunately, the new scanners are not available yet.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Do you provide plastic bags for the liquids
Hi Emer, you should pack your own plastic bags.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Salve, arrivo in pochi giorni a Malaga, per ripartire esiste ancora la legge dei 100ml fino ad 1litro oppure avete cambiato e si possono trasportare anche lacche per capelli superiori ai 100 ml? (Faccio il parrucchiere) grazie
Hello Manuel! Yes, right now the limitation of 100 ml/1 litre is still valid, kind regards!
AirMalaga.com
16 august 2025
Is it still required to remove liquids from hand luggage when going through security at Malaga airport?
Hello Irene,
That’s right.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Salve volevo chiedere se ancora vigesse la regola dei 100 no o fossero stati montati i nuovi macchinari
Hello Giorgia,
Unfortunately, the new machines are not yet available, so the 100 ml rule remains in force.
Best regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi, have you implemented the new rule with liquids yet? Do you have the new scanners?
Hello Fia,
No new scanners yet, you still have to put your 100ml liquids in a clear plastic bag.
Best regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi there, do our liquids in our hand luggage need to all fit in a single plastic bag still?
Hello Han,
Yes, all your liquids must still fit in a single clear, resealable 1-litre plastic bag.
Regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi, i’m travelling from Malaga airport to Glasgow on Friday. I have a handheld clothes steamer with me to help get creases out of clothes, will this be okay in my carry on bag? Thanks
Hi Evie, yes, you can bring a handheld clothes steamer in your hand luggage, but it’s crucial to empty the water tank before you arrive at the airport. Most travel steamers are designed to be compact and won’t usually cause issues with airport security, according to CN Traveller. Additionally, be sure your hand luggage complies with the size and weight restrictions set by your airline.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi we are travelling from Malaga airport to Cardiff UK on 24.5.25 Are the new 3D scanners in operation yet or do we need to take liquids & electronic devices out at security please?
Thanks
Hello Mandy,
No new scanners yet. You have to take the liquids and electronic devices out.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi. Travelling today. Have the new scanners been installed?
Hello Louisa, no new scanners yet.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi. Will be travelling back to UK from lovely Spain. Is the 100ml bottles rule still in place, please?
Hi Krisztina, that’s right!
Maximum: 100 ml per bottle.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Travelling out of Malaga. Will knitting needles and crochet hooks be allowed in carry-on?
Hi Kate! Knitting needles are usually allowed if they are made of wood or plastic. Avoid metal needles, as they can be viewed as dangerous objects by security agents. Crochet hooks are allowed on the plane.
Kind regards, AirMalaga.com
Hi, Flying home to the UK on Friday after a wonderful 2 weeks. Does Málaga have the new scanners installed yet or do I still have to remove electronics and liquids from my hand luggage as I go through security?
Hi Stuart,
No new scanners yet. You have to remove electronics and liquids.
Regards,
AirMalaga.Com
Hi,
Im travelling ti Malaga from London, meeting my friend and she will be then leaving Malaga airport to Prague. I would like to pass through her a perfume of 100ml for my brother. Would the perfume have to be in a plastic bag with all her belongings or is it fine seperately? Many thanks.
Hello Jana,
If you only have hand-luggage, you will have to show that perfume in a plastic bag, with any other liquids you may carry.
Regards,
AirMalaga.com
I am travelling this Wednesday, will I need to show my liquids and laptop separately?
Hello David, yes, you will have to leave them in a plastic tray.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Are the new liquid rules in place now? I’ll be travelling from BHX where liquids don’t need to be separated. I fly back on 1st March 2025. Will liquids need to be separated for the return flight?
Hi Cheryl! Malaga Airport is a bit slower in that regard, compared to other european airports. By now, the old rules apply, that is: no more than 1 litre liquids in hand luggage, in containers of 100 ml max.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Thank you! That’s useful to know!
Hi,
I would like to ask if I can bring a perfume in my hand luggage that complies with the liquid restrictions (under 100 ml, in a resealable plastic bag), but was not purchased at the airport. Is this allowed?
Hi Sara,
If it is under 100ml, you can carry it on your hand luggage.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Can we have hiking poles in our hand luggage
Hello Johan, as far as we know, hiking poles are prohibited in carry-on luggage due to their potential use as a weapon. In any case, you can double check with your airline.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Are there restrictions on flying with breast milk exceeding 100ml? Pumping while on vacation and want to make sure I can take it through security with me in my carry-on luggage.
Hello Jane, you can carry up to 2 litres if you are traveling from the UK, and no limit from Spanish airports.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
I’m due to travel out of Malaga airport on Friday 8th November to northern Ireland
do liquids still still need to be in separate bag?
Hello David, it’s recommended.
Most of the time they won’t bother to open your bag, but when they do, they will move all your liquids to a plastic bag, and it can take some time.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
What time will Malaga airport security shutdown for tonight, Saturday Oct 19, 2024?
Hi Ken,
Malaga airport is open 24/7.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
I’m travellingctomorriw from malaga to gatwick. Have the new regulations regarding liquids come in yet?
Hello Claire, the regulations are still the same. Max: 100 ml per bottle, in a transparent bag.
Regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi, I’ll be traveling soon with analog camera film in my carry on. Do you know whether will it be safe to put it trough the scanner or should I ask the staff for manual check for them?
Hello Maya!
If you think it could be affected by the scanner, you should ask them to check it manually.
Regards,
AirMalaga.com
Can I take more than one clear bag as two can be taken out from Bristol airport, so when we come back can two clear bags be allowed if they contain all under 100ml?
Hi Esther! As far as we know, the he number of clear bags does not matter, as long as the total content of 100 ml containers does not exceed 1000 ml.
Best regards,
AirMalaga.com
My daughter have nut allergy and can I take food from uk to Spain malaga in my cabin bag like cakes, crisps ,chocolates?
Hello Rajwinder, yes, no problem.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Have the rules changed yet? We travel tomorrow
Hello Vivienne,
Those rules will be applied from 2025 onwards.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hi can i check if flights from Malaga to Belfast still need to put 100ml liquids in a clear plastic bag or can they be left in hand luggage ?
Thanks
Hello Jo,
Yes, you still have to put your 100ml liquids in a clear plastic bag.
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com
Hello, yesterday, 28.10.2023. appox. at 13.00 I went through the security control in Malaga airport and the security officer wanted to check my bags, put my staff separately, and my iPad left in the box where passengers put their bags, liquids and devices, is it possible to check , where it is?
Hello Elita,
Please check this information: https://www.aena.es/en/malaga-costa-del-sol/airport-services/categories/information-and-meeting-points.html
Kind regards,
AirMalaga.com