Why the airlines will keep the current ban on liquids

Right now, the major US airlines are probably starting to see the silver lining in last week's air travel cloud. After three trans-continental trips in the US, I can see it very clearly: the ban on liquids has dramatically reduced the level of carry-on luggage.

Although airlines will have to load and unload more bags, the upsides to this situation were evident immediately:

• Faster boarding & disembarkation. Boarding, especially, went much faster, as there was no pushing and shoving around the limited bin space
• Faster security clearing: fewer bags, fewer issues

While it's inconvenient for many passengers, airlines could see big benefits from trimming 10-15 minutes off each aircraft turn-around time. This morning's Wall Street Journal has an article that seems to confirm that, while the airlines will struggle with extra bags, those regulations are here to stay.