Skip to main content
 

Is air travel safe during the covid-19 pandemic?

Is air travel safe during the covid-19 pandemic?
Click to enlarge

How you can stay safe while travelling by air

Although it is recommended that you should avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada, flights are available, and airlines are doing their best to keep you safe. Research has shown that there is little risk of covid-19 being transmitted, if social distancing and hygiene procedures are put in place.

If you have a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or change in normal sense of smell and taste, you should isolate and arrange to have a test for covid-19.

What are the risks of flying?

Using any sort of transport that carries multiple people will increase your risk of exposure to the covid-19 virus. Following government, airport and airline guidelines will help to keep you protected.

What country you are travelling to will affect the risk of transmission, depending on the number of cases. Before leaving check that you are still allowed into the country and what the procedures are upon arrival. You will also need to isolate when you return to Canada. Have a look at the government’s travel advice during the covid-19 pandemic for more up-to-date information.

How are airlines keeping me safe?

Cabins will be deep cleaned, and sanitizing products will be provided. Seating should be allocated according to social distancing guidelines. Check your airline’s website for the precautions and guidelines they are implementing.

What should I take with me on the plane?

Wearing a mask at all times is mandatory in the airport and on the aircraft, so bring one with you. You can only take it off when eating and drinking. Children under two years and those with breathing difficulties can travel without a mask.

What precautions should I take while on the plane?

There are a number of things you can do when travelling on the aircraft to keep yourself as safe as possible:

  • Wash or sanitize your hands regularly
  • Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth as much as possible
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue
  • Do not move from your seat unnecessarily but do stretch your legs when you can to allow blood flow from lower legs
  • Keep socially distant from others on the plane
  • If you feel unwell, stay in your seat and inform a member of the cabin crew

Should I travel if I feel unwell?

If you are feeling unwell you should not travel on an aircraft to reduce the risk of transmission. If you have symptoms of covid-19 you may be denied boarding.

What will happen when I return to Canada?

You will have to isolate for fourteen days, even if you do not have symptoms. Our blogpost Can I return to Canada during the covid-19 pandemic? has some more information on what to do when returning to Canada.

I’m looking for a travel clinic in Ottawa

Look no further than Canadian Travel Clinics if you need travel vaccinations in Ottawa. We can offer evening and early morning appointments for your convenience. Book online now.