The airline industry has been one of the hardest-hit sectors of the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fewer and fewer people are taking to the skies, even during big holiday events such as Spring Break and Independence Day. This has led many airlines to fly either very few passengers or none at all. Understandably, the airline companies want to begin bringing back people. However, government-issued orders have prevented many airlines from being able to operate at full capacity due to the fear of COVID-19 spreading.
So what can you expect from the aviation industry when things begin to pick up?
COVID-19 Screenings
One of the more popular ways that airlines are making sure to protect the population as well as get people on their planes is by taking temperatures at the gate. This allows the airline company to know when someone is running a high-fever and prevent them from getting on the plane. However, there is a concern that some passengers won’t be too keen on this type of public health screening. Experts in the field state that in order for this to work, the tests must be quick, non-invasive, and properly handled in the event that someone with a high temperature is confronted.
Cabin Configuration
If you’ve ever been inside an airplane cabin, then you know just how packed everyone can be, especially those in economy class. This is why many world governments are recommending airlines to avoid flying at full capacity for the time being. This will allow people to practice social distancing even while they’re up in the air. This, of course, is very frustrating for airline companies as they are already struggling to turn a profit, but it seems that a majority of them are complying to ensure the safety and health of their passengers.
Cutting Routes
There are many airline companies, both high and small, that run short routes. For example, there’s a high probability that you can find a flight from San Antonio, Texas, to Dallas, Texas with ease. This, however, might change in the future as airlines struggle to keep airplanes in the sky. You may find that airlines will focus primarily on flights that are in more demand.
