Ask the Editors: The Aviation Week Network invites our readers to submit questions to our editors and analysts. We’ll answer them, and if we can’t we’ll reach out to our wide network of experts for advice.
Once onboard an airplane, you may be in a relatively safe environment. But getting there is something else. Passengers having to mill around boarding areas in close proximity for long periods of time and gates being close together do not make for a healthy situation given the outbreak of COVID-19. What can be done?
Air Transport World Editor-in-Chief Karen Walker responds:
You will see far more contactless systems at airports next time you fly. Airlines will urge passengers to check in remotely, use their mobile phone apps for their boarding passes and print their own checked-bag tags at home. At the airport, there will be more self-serve kiosks. Everyone—passengers and airport/airline/screening staff—will wear masks. Many staffers will be behind protective barriers.
The screening process will be touchless. Airport floors will have designated spacer markings. Boarding groups will be staggered. It will be difficult for some airports with limited space, although not while load factors are so low. And most airports have already reorganized their floors to open up spaces and avoid crowding.
Wear a face covering at all times, carry hand sanitizer, be socially aware as you move through the airport, and you will be fine—far safer than all those people who rushed to beaches, pools, clubs and restaurants with little to no precautions.
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