Since the introduction of the coronavirus, the travel industry has been one of the most impacted in the world. In order for people to get where they need to be and remain healthy throughout their travels, airlines such as American, Delta, Southwest, United and many more have put new plans into place to help keep their airports and planes safe to use. So, just how are airlines handling the coronavirus and keeping people healthy?

Steps Airlines are Taking to Protect Travelers

Cleaning Aircrafts

Travelers will, of course, be spending the majority of their travel time sitting in their seat on the way to their destination. Since people will be so close together for multiple hours, it is extremely important for airlines to keep their aircrafts clean. In order to keep each plane clean and healthy for people to be in, many airlines will be spending much more time, multiple hours’ worth, thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing things including but not limited to: seats, bathrooms, tray tables, window shades, armrests and more.

Many airlines are also using High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which are commonly found in hospitals to provide patients with clean air, which completely changes the air on the plane every two to four minutes. Crew members will also have hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes on their person.

Handling of In-flight Food and Beverages

People are surely still going to want food, snacks and drinks to accompany their flights. With this, airlines will also put a lot of emphasis on sanitizing and disinfecting tableware, dishes, cutlery and glassware before washing and unused supplies will be discarded. You may also find flight attendants wearing gloves when handling food and beverages to further limit spreading any sicknesses, as well as now providing passengers with new cups or glasses for refills on beverages instead of using the same ones.

Read more: How to stay healthy while traveling.

Cleaning Airports

When people aren’t on their flights, they are out exploring the airport or sitting near their gate. Both airline employees and travelers can expect to find sanitizing stations located around the airports with hand sanitizer and wipes available in popular areas. Many airline crews will also spend extra time disinfecting many common areas and surfaces located throughout the airport to ensure a safe and clean environment for everyone.

Those are just a few of the many ways airlines are handling the coronavirus and keeping people healthy. Interested travelers can also keep up to date with our coronavirus research hub, which is constantly being updated with new information and developments.