Queues will be longer… Check-in will be longer… Masks must be worn… All discussions of flying in the post-Covid world. Which, if you ask me, aren’t going to put me off at this stage. I’m, quite frankly, missing the repetitive announcements of “a bag left unattended will be removed and maybe destroyed”. I’m even missing security check-in asking an experienced traveller if there’s a laptop in my bag or if I’m wearing a belt. At this stage I’ll comply with whatever rules it takes to hear my check in gate open.
So what are the airlines doing to allow us to become a step closer to boarding a plane safely and securely? From wellness ambassadors to cheaper flights… There’s a lot of positive change as well as the odd mask.
Etihad Launches New Wellness Ambassadors
‘According to the airline the ambassadors will be able to “offer reassurance to customers by sharing advice on travel wellbeing and details of the health and sanitisation measures being implemented throughout their journey”.’ Mark Caswell, Business Traveller
“France’s plan to provide €7 billion ($7.7 billion) of government-backed loans to help Air France-KLM through the coronavirus crisis was approved in early May by the European Commission.” Flight Global
Austria’s government has agreed with Lufthansa Group a financial support package for Austrian Airlines worth €600 million ($667 million) to secure its future operation as a network carrier in Vienna. Flight Global
American Airlines Positive Change To Seat Refunds
“The Fort Worth-based carrier has just made a major change to its refund policy for seat fees. Effective immediately, American Airlines will let you request a voucher for the value of your non-refundable seat if you cancel your trip during the coronavirus travel period. The policy applies to flights booked by June 30, 2020 for travel through Sep. 30.” Benji Stawski, The Points Guy
CNN’s Fred Pleitgen boards a Lufthansa flight to see the new reality of flying during the pandemic.
Social Distancing Measures At Gatwick
“Only family groups or people travelling in the same party can travel in lifts together. All passengers and staff must wear face masks, which are on sale through vending machines. The airport is telling passengers: “You will see protective screens in place at many places including check-in, boarding and gates.” Simon Calder, Independent Online.
Travel Experts Predict Prices Will Plummet
“While flight prices are currently rather high, with a Qantas flight from Sydney to Melbourne costing as much as $539 one way, a drop in fares may be on the horizon as domestic travel increases and border restrictions are predicted to ease.
Speaking to news.com.au, Angus Kidman, Finder’s travel guru said all eyes will be on Queensland which he tips will boast some of the best airfare savings.
“Melbourne-Sydney is Australia’s busiest route, but has a lot of business travel so doesn’t usually see the biggest discounts. Once Queensland opens up its borders, I’d expect sub-$30 fares for the Gold Coast.” Escape, Vanessa Brown
Miranda Griffin 