TSA PreCheck members may soon bring larger water bottles through security at select airports, marking a major shift in longstanding rules. Former TSA head John Pistole announced the agency is considering the change, 25 years after the Sept. 11 attacks and 20 years after liquid restrictions followed a foiled Atlantic plot. The new policy is unlikely to take effect before the holidays, and initial airports remain unclear. TSA stated it will continue exploring opportunities to enhance security and improve the traveling experience as technology evolves. This liquid rule change is part of a series of recent programs loosening checkpoint restrictions as screening technology advances. Last week, PreCheck members without tickets gained the ability to pass through security at 13 U.S. airports to meet friends or family at the gate. Last summer, the agency stopped requiring passengers to remove shoes, previously a PreCheck-exclusive privilege. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem previously questioned the TSA's liquid restrictions, suggesting the amount permitted "may be the next big announcement." Security experts note the rollout could take years, as many smaller airports lack advanced computed tomography scanners capable of detecting explosive liquids. The TSA currently enforces the 3-1-1 rule, limiting containers to 3.4 ounces fitting in a quart-size bag. That policy was eased from a 2006 total ban following British intelligence foiling a terrorist plot.

TSA will likely continue adapting rules as screening capabilities improve, balancing security with passenger convenience for trusted travelers across U.S. airports.