May 22 - U.S. airlines are taking substantial, proactive steps to protect passengers throughout this COVID-19 global pandemic, and they’re calling on everyone — from gate agents, pilots, flight cabin crew, to the passengers — to work together to protect each other.

Below are some resources on what it means to Fly Healthy and Fly Smart.

 

What does it mean to Fly Healthy?

 

U.S. airlines are committed to the safety and wellbeing of passengers and employees and are proactively implementing enhanced cleaning procedures and new technologies to protect passengers and employees through this public health crisis.

 

Airlines are helping you fly healthy

• Requiring face coverings • Using HEPA filtration systems • Sterilizing with electrostatic sprayers and foggers • Sanitizing counters, kiosks and gate areas • Disinfecting surfaces like arm rests and seat buckles • Reducing touchpoints like beverage service

 

These measures are designed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and to ensure a safer flying experience at every step of the travel process. Passengers encounter these protocols before ever boarding an aircraft—increased signage encourages proper social distancing and airport kiosks are disinfected frequently. Additionally, all A4A carriers announced that customer-facing employees will be required to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth, and customers are required to wear a face covering during the entire travel journey.

 

Every part of the flying experience has been modified with the wellbeing of passengers and employees in mind. Carriers have adjusted boarding policies and in-flight service to reduce touchpoints while also making hand sanitizer available. On board, all A4A carriers have aircraft equipped with HEPA air filtration systems and all members comply with or exceed CDC guidance. Aircraft cabins undergo increased multi-faceted disinfection processes, which are focused on key touchpoints. Surfaces are treated with approved disinfectants that are effective against viruses. Cabin cleanliness is further improved with the use of electrostatic sprayers and foggers, which use anti-microbial solutions to treat hard and soft surfaces.

 

What does it mean to Fly Smart?

Passengers share in the responsibility to make flying a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. These actions, while small, have a wide-ranging effect that serve as an added measure of protection. Incorporating common courtesy and proper hygiene in everyday behavior is the first defense before boarding. Protecting yourself and others is simple with these recommendations from the CDC:

 

What can you do to fly smart?

• Wear a face covering over your nose and mouth • Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds • Cover your face when coughing or sneezing • Use your smartphone to check in • Avoid touching your face • Stay home if you are sick

 

The virus has changed how everyday life is approached, but it will not change the level of commitment and care that airlines seek to provide to passengers - a confident and comfortable journey at every step of the way. By working collaboratively, everyone can prevent the spread of COVID-19.

For more information, please visit airlinestakeaction.com

 

 

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