From
http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2...ids-on-planes/
The initial change will affect only passengers transferring at European Union airports. After Jan. 31, passengers can transfer with liquids, including duty-free bottles, purchased at airports or on aircraft outside the union. The liquids will be allowed on aircraft if they are sealed in special duty-free bags and subject to screening using new liquid explosive detection equipment.
“Currently, the bottles are seized, even if they are in duty-free bags,” Mr. Kidd said. If the first phase proves effective, detection machines will be used to screen all liquids, ultimately replacing restrictions completely. “But nothing is changing for small containers,” he said. Passengers will continue to be able to bring small (up to 100 milliliters, or 3.4 ounces) containers in a one-liter resealable plastic bag, and any liquids needed during the trip for medical or special dietary requirements, like baby food.
I'm not certain that the 'new liquid explosive detection equipment' is going to detect anything in a closed bottle sealed in a special duty-free bag. But it is a step on a long, mostly useless, journey. Keep going, please.