What Measures are International Airports Taking to Prevent the Spread of Coronavirus?

The busiest airports of the world are striving hard to protect travelers amidst the coronavirus pandemic. While the scare of COVID-19 is spreading faster than the infection itself, airlines are highly committed to ensuring passenger safety. In fact, even if you do not wish to travel at the moment, most airlines offer extension and flexibility in booking.

Amidst this health emergency, here’s how the aviation industry is doing its part to minimize the spread of coronavirus.

1. Rigorous Screening

Health officers are appointed at every check-in counter and boarding gate to measure your body temperature. This screening is being done by infrared thermometers that are contactless. All passengers are requested to maintain patience at the air flight ticket counters, while each one is thoroughly checked.

2. Flight Cancellations

Airports support the cancellation of many flights, particularly those flying to or through the US and China. In fact, even before the very first case was confirmed, many airlines had stopped operating to these countries. This has eased the work pressure on doctors and airport officials, who face tremendous challenge while screening.

3. Detailed Travel History

At the airport, you might have to produce your travel history, along with your flight tickets. The officers will want to know if you have travelled to any of the highly affected countries, such as China, the US or Italy recently. You will also have to inform them if you even have the mildest symptoms of coronavirus.

4. Don’t Use Bins

At the security check points, travelers do not need to keep their phones, laptops and wallets in the bins. Each one has to put all the items in their own carry-on bags and pass them through the X-ray system. These trays exchange hundreds of hands and have high chances of being contaminated.

5. Security Queue

There should be a minimum distance of at least 2 meters in the security lines. No one is allowed to be in close proximity with another traveler. Also, boarding is currently being done for only three rows at a time, to avoid crowding near the gates.

6. Cabin Disinfectants

Seats, armrests, meal tables, washrooms, overheard bins, IFE screens and windows are being disinfected regularly. The cleaners are tested before and after the process to ensure they are not affected by the virus. The products used adhere to the guidelines laid out by the IATA and WHO.

7. No Onboard Sales

To contain the spread of coronavirus, many airlines have temporarily suspended onboard sales. The products that are no longer available are pillows, hot towels, magazines and blankets. The in-flight duty-free sales have also been halted for now. Passengers will receive snack bags to maintain minimum contact between the crew and themselves. This will reduce the chances of contamination for both the crew and the travelers.

Before booking your next air tickets, make sure to read the guidelines well. This way you will know what exactly to expect at the airport.