It’s been a little over a year since the start of the COVID pandemic and while the travel industry has persevered after months and months of only-when-essential travel restrictions, it’s finally showing signs of bouncing back. Last summer we shared our experience of what it’s like to travel in global pandemic, but it’s been almost a year and some things have changed—the most prominent thing being the number of people in the airport and on the planes.
According to IATA, “Domestic travel was the highlight of the air traffic rebound, which bounced back to 67.7 percent of March 2019 levels.” TSA has now screened at least 1 million people a day since March 11. If you’re wondering what it’s like to travel during the travel upswing, here’s what you need to know.
At the Airport
Atlanta International Airport was almost completely empty last summer, but by May 2021, it was full of travelers ready to get back in the air. The TSA line was considerably longer than it was this time last year, but airport employees are still using plexiglass shields on kiosks and wearing proper face coverings. Federal law still requires everyone wear inside airports and on planes, even if you’ve been vaccinated or have a negative COVID test. All masks must properly cover your nose and mouth and if you plan on wearing a valved mask, make sure you also have an additional face covering to go over the top of the valve. If you choose to wear a gaiter, they must be doubled up for the flight. Disposable masks are also available upon request if you forgot yours at home.
On the Plane
Many airlines temporarily blocked middle seats to promote social distancing, but Delta blocked seats until April 30, 2021. Now that middle seats are available, Delta’s planes are flying at max capacity again. However, I will note that on my first flight, I didn’t have anyone sitting next to me. Additionally, airlines are still boarding from the rear of the aircraft to the front to help with social distancing.
US airlines have implemented new cleaning procedures and are still using industrial-grade HEPA filters that extract more than 99% of particles, including viruses, and electrostatic sprayers with high-grade disinfectant before every flight. Although the planes are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between flights, flight attendants still hand out disinfecting wipes to all passengers as they board, so that they can wipe down their own area for extra peace of mind.
Airlines have also changed their food and beverage service since 2020. For example, Delta no longer provides individually bagged snack packs with water, cookies, a snack, and hand sanitizer anymore. They’ve returned to their old food and beverage service, so while snacks are still individually packaged, they don’t come inside a Ziploc bag with other snacks anymore.
Even though more people are traveling again, the travel industry is still going to great lengths to help keep travelers healthy and safe. I totally feel comfortable booking more travel right now and in the future.
To keep up to date with the changes in the travel industry and the added health and safety precautions, be sure to follow along on our blog.
