Masks, Wipes, Sanitizers, Oh My! 

It’s a COVID-19 summer and life as we knew it is no longer a reality. A friend of mine recently travelled to British Columbia to begin a new job. She described first-hand how airline travel is changing. While no one else I know is planning on flying soon, when any of us do, there will be many changes to navigate. Here is a high level summary of the emerging new normal practices in airline travel that show air travel is likely forever changed:

  • The introduction of airline health and safety protocols
    • At home, Air Canada introduced its CleanCare+ program. Worldwide, United has its CleanPlus program, Alitalia is Flying Safely, and Air France is By Your Side At All Times.
  • Wearing face masks for the duration of the flight
    • This is also common in many airport terminals.
  • Empty middle seats
    • Initially, airlines are using this practice as a means of physically distancing passengers.
  • Fewer non-travellers in airport terminals
    • Unless a traveler requires assistance, only travelers will be allowed inside many terminals.
Empty Airport During the COVID-19 Summer of 2020
Image by Gerald Friedrich from Pixabay
  • Health screening questionnaires
    • Online check-in can include a survey regarding health status.
  • Infrared temperature screening
    • Travellers will be assessed for elevated (above 37.5 Celsius) temperatures and denied check-in if a fever is detected.
  • The elimination of onboard food and alcohol
    • While you may receive a bottle of water, the elimination of food and alcohol for the time being will reduce contact between passengers and flight attendants.
  • Permission to use the on-board washroom facilities
    • RyanAir is introducing this practice as a way to prevent passenger congestion.

A Great Alternative: Stay Home & Explore Locally

The greater likelihood for travellers is that we are planning to stay close to home and discover the little gems within driving, biking, or even walking distance. Health and safety will still be a priority, to promote minimizing the coronavirus’ spread. Many regions and businesses are requiring that masks be worn, however the lack of consistency from place to place can be confusing. It appears mask-wearing is the default practice to be safe for everyone, even while practising physical distancing.

Explore Locally in Canada for Summer 2020
Photo by Ali Tawfiq on Unsplash

I’m looking forward to planning a number of day trips that can be accomplished in a three-hour driving radius to the north, west, and east of us. No southerly travel at this time! There is so much to explore in and around the community and I’m excited about the possibilities.  

Where are you exploring this summer? Let us know in the comments below or at info@mp-tours.com.