Here’s why you may not contract COVID-19 at all while flying

Ever since the pandemic brought the world to a standstill, people across the globe have been stranded. The last six months have been trying times for families living away from each other. As we come to terms with the fact that the Coronavirus is here to stay, various countries have adopted flight schemes to unite people with their loved ones. Vande Bharat scheme in India is one such initiative. All of you might have questions about the extent to which you might be susceptible to the virus while flying. We have broken it down for you as to why you may not contract the virus after all.

Scientists and researchers from across the globe have pointed out that the chances of you getting affected by the virus are very minimal on a flight. This is especially in the case of short-haul flights where you will not be exposed for too long even if there is a carrier on-board. In fact, the transmission rates are far lower compared to when you are on the ground. So long as you follow the norms of social distancing and wear a mask, it is safe.

How is the spread prevented?

Modern-day aircraft are designed in such a way that they filter out impure air. Fresh air is released into the aircraft cabin almost every 2-3 minutes. If all the passengers and crew members follow the norms of social distancing and use face covers, there is nothing to worry about. Temperature screenings at the airport checkpoints and restricted movement within the flight itself is another way in which the spread can be prevented.

Until there is a full stop to the pandemic, airlines have decided to not provide meals on-board. Airlines have also made it mandatory that middle seats remain empty during the flight. If you have chosen a window seat, the chances of you being exposed to the virus are far less compared to the person in the aisle seat. This is not to say that the person in the aisle seat is fully exposed. But as they have more number of people seated around them, they might be susceptible. This may happen only in extreme cases and during long haul flights.

Also read: Standard Operating Protocols for all International Travellers: Indian Govt

Experts take

Lin Chen, the President of the International Society of Travel Medicine, has suggested that the transmission of COVID-19 through air travel is very low. She also stated that in a flight which flew from China to Canada in January 2020, a COVID-19 positive patient was on board. With appropriate safety measures in place, not even one of the 350 passengers on board were affected. But if airlines choose to fly more number of flights or increase the number of passengers on board, there is a higher chance of the virus transmitting.

Also read: Cost of Air Travel Bubble and Vande Bharat Flights to be borne by travellers

It is better to keep your hands clean and sanitized at all times. Make sure you do not touch your face to avoid any transfer of bacteria which might be present on your hands. The tray table onboard the aircraft is considered to be one of the dirtiest places. This is the reason that airlines have chosen to not provide meals on board. Try your best to not touch this table and wear a face shield. A face shield will cover your eyes, nose and mouth and keep you completely protected.

Even if the pandemic has put a temporary stop to your travel plans, there is no end to it. Time and again it has been an accepted fact that travel is life. For those of you who are craving to travel instantly or at least experience being on a vacation, we have got your back. Check out some of the best staycation deals from Pickyourtrail and fulfil your wanderlust. Happy travelling!