How Safe is Air Travel – My first domestic flying experience during covid
It was after much contemplation that I decided to undertake a domestic trip (the first flight in the past two years of the pandemic) . It was basically a necessity otherwise I would have preferred to wait.
I am putting together a blog of my flight experience during covid, what all is required, what to expect, precautions to be taken and above all, how safe is air travel in the midst of the pandemic.
Though there is no respite from the surging numbers and curfews within the country but there are no restrictions on domestic flights as such. The airports are the same as in the pre-pandemic days….thronging with people and bustling with activity.
Let’s go through the entire process starting from the entry.
Falling into line, outside the airport there’s a temperature screening machine. As you halt for a moment here a beep sound and a nod from the person in-charge indicates that all’s well and you can proceed.
All airlines require passengers to web check-in 24 to 2 hours prior to boarding. This is in fact convenient, helps in social distancing and saves time. Afterwards, passengers just have to check-in their baggage and head to security.
If you’ve not done a web check-in then you’ll have to collect a boarding pass from the counter only on payment.
For our protection during this time, it is advisable to carry less baggage so that instead of checking them in you can carry along inside the plane, preventing exposure on the conveyor belt.
Airports have taken all safety measures, like, marking of seats for social distancing and for queues. Though how much is being followed by the public is questionable.
Proceeding to the boarding gates, it is ideal to have a zone-wise boarding, beginning from the back rows to the front. Most airlines follow that, in order to avoid over-crowding.
The number of cabin crew inside is limited to 2 or 3 and all are in PPE kits.
While de-boarding too you’re instructed to stand up only when you see passengers in the seat before you stand and start moving towards the exit.
Tips for Safe Flying
Web check-in before reaching the airport and download an e-copy of your boarding pass or take a print out.
Be aware and do not forget to maintain social distancing at the airport.
While choosing your seat and if given an option go for the aisle seat as they offer maximum protection.
Wash-rooms at airports are cleaner and safer than inside the aircraft, hence avoid using while flying.
Wear a mask at all times and keep sanitizing your hands.
Finally, travel only if it is necessary!
If each one of us pay heed to these norms, flying during the pandemic would not only be smoother for everyone but the virus will be under control as well.
Another blog from my website on the most popular hill getaway in south India : Ooty
https://travelsimplygo.com/ooty-tourist-places-list-with-images/
Dream| Discover | Travel | Bliss
