Since the outbreak of the Corona Virus, the travel industry has basically come to a standstill. Countries closed their borders and most flights grounded. The good news – it is temporary and we will be able to travel again soon. The bad news – global travel will change.
People are looking forward to travel again.
I spoke to a friend that lives in New York about her travel plans for this summer. She wants to travel to Paris. With daily flights between New York and Paris, this is not impossible. The burning question: What changes can she expect? That is not an easy question to answer, as we are still cruising through uncharted waters. We do know that airports and airlines have introduced changes over the last couple of weeks. Let’s have a look at the most important changes.
Airports.
Many airports have introduced measures, based on government guidelines, to cater for travellers and to keep them safe.
Sanitisers are distributed throughout the airport and at counters. Travelers need to adhere to the social distancing rule and passengers are distributed more evenly across the terminals.
Some airports are introducing a full-body disinfectant method by using a special spray that kills bacteria on the skin and clothes.
We are seeing more electronic check-in kiosks to avoid unnecessary interaction. Temperature checks at departure and arrival is done. This will become the new norm when travelling.
Lounges and duty free shopping.
If you are travelling for business purposes and were looking forward to be relaxing in the lounge, you might be in for disappointment. Many lounges have closed but some remain open for example the Air France lounge in New York.
On the plane.
Flight attendants will be wearing masks and so should you. Most airlines have stepped up the cleaning and sanitation process. Your tray table, seat- belt and seat would have been properly disinfected.
If you are flying for example from Atlanta – Paris flights, do not be alarmed if people in protective suits step out from the plane. It is their job to make sure that the plane is safe, clean and sterilized before you board. They use special sprays and adhere to the strictest hygiene protocol.
Conclusion.
Many airlines will gradually resume flying. It is important that we prepare ourselves for the changes. Most of all we should have patience and trust that the airlines will do all they can to keep their passengers safe, whilst using their services.
