How Airline Travel Will Be Affected As States Reopen

Eric L. Martin | Chubby Diaries

Travelers are eager to get back to doing what they love: Traveling. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has seen the airline industry come to a halt. Since the World Health Organisation declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, countries have shutdown entry for international travelers. However, after several months of lockdown many countries are now starting to ease restrictions.

The biggest hurdle for airlines and airports is how to protect both the airline and airport staff as well as passengers—eagerly awaiting to fly again. With the ease of these restrictions are airlines and airports ready for a new normal, and will a rise in airline prices be expected?

Social Distancing Ready?

Like with many grocery stores and businesses still open, airports will have to practice social distancing. John-Holland-Kaye, CEO of Heathrow, said long lines would mean a half a mile for boarding planes if social distancing is put into place.

Like many doctors’ offices, the use of cellular phones will become important for airlines. The Daily Mail reported the use of text messages may be used to help avoid crowding at the gate. This will help eliminate standing in long lines.

Face-Masks Compulsory?

While there was a conflict in the initial use of facemasks by the CDC, they have become mandatory in many instances. The International Air Transport Association supports the wearing of face coverings for crews and passengers. The use would require them to be worn for the duration of the flight.

Will Flights Become More Expensive?

Near the beginning of the issued pandemic, airlines were touting low prices. But with airline companies losing money and the eagerness to travel, this has crossed the minds of many experts. Pablo Chiozza CEO at World Travel Solutions said, “All major airlines are expecting their companies to have a smaller size once they resume operations.” He continued to point out that with capacity and demand, airlines are “not expecting many empty.”

In a survey by the Dollar Flight Club, airline prices dropped 21 percent after the 2009 recession. However, in 2012 there was a 24 percent increase. With the airline industry losing billions of dollars due to COVID-19, airlines will merge, and low-fare airlines could be put out of business. This will also affect bag fees, reduced travel options, and make flights more expensive.

Eric L. Martin Chubby Diaries Travel Analyst. He writes on the latest Travel News and much more.