At the time of writing, we have begun the 2nd Quarter of 2020 and the whole world is in crisis with the COVID19 pandemic. Within a short space of time almost all travel appears to have ground to a halt. These are challenging times indeed especially if you are in the travel and hospitality industry. Strange times where airlines are not operating to carry passengers in and out of countries, making it impossible for guests to be welcomed into all the beautiful hotels now sitting idle across the globe.
We acknowledge that people are dying and if any of you have lost any dear ones, please accept our sincere condolences. As with any tragedy, pandemic, disaster or challenge “this too shall pass”.
We at Executive Traveller have our fellow travellers at heart. We hope that we will all travel the world again and when we do, we will all treasure the new memories that our new experiences will create. The travel business will blossom again because travellers will need to satisfy their curiosity. They will need to assure themselves that all the beautiful places they once enjoyed still exist. Destinations as well as service providers will also be there to welcome us with open arms. In the meantime, we will do everything we can to bring you information about all you need to know during these trying times.
We strongly recommend that you read reliable and trusted advice from your local authorities and governments such as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) as well as guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Now, the FCO has advised British nationals against all but essential international travel for an indefinite period, which means that, though most destinations are restricted, there is still some essential travelling going on and for the airlines, flying during the COVID19 pandemic requires taking strict and rigorous precautions to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for both passengers and staff.
Here is what to expect:
At the airport
In compliance with local health authorities, body temperature will be measured at the airport before departure, and, if the recorded temperature is higher than that established by law, (usually 37.5 degrees Celsius), you may require specific medical certification or be prohibited from departing altogether. Passengers are also checked again on arrival.
Social distancing
To maintain social distancing, please check-in, where possible, online or at the airport fast check-in kiosks and keep a safe 2 metre distance throughout your journey. This is means that you must allow enough time for travelling in order not to miss your flight.
Most airport lounges are closed, and all aircraft have been disinfected.
On Board
Airlines like Alitalia have created interpersonal distancing allowing at least one metre between passengers on flights leaving the seats next to passengers free. Families can ask to sit together if they make an application prior to the flight.
• It is mandatory to wear a protective mask. If you do not have one, the airline will provide you with one.
• In-flight services will still operate in a reduced format to minimise contact and guarantee safe passage and stationing of the flight crew.
• Food and drink will be supplied in single sealed portions, adhering to highest hygiene standards. The possibility of requesting certain special meals remains available.
• Both boarding and disembarking phases must take place in an orderly manner, in rows, maintaining a safe distance of one metre.
Passengers will need to carefully follow the instructions of the crew.
On all occasions always wash your hands regularly with soap or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth and stay at least 2 metres away from someone who is coughing or sneezing. More information here:
Airlines News Update
As corona virus travel restrictions continue to halt travel across the world, most airlines are not flying and are offering vouchers for cancelled flights to be used in future. The usual delays and cancellation compensations may not apply.
Air New Zealand has made the decision to suspend two of its current routes, Auckland – Buenos Aires and Los Angeles-London. The airline has also taken the decision to postpone the commencement of its non-stop Auckland-New York service from 29 October 2020 until late 2021 at the earliest.
British Airways has announced that it is set to make 12,000 workers redundant on the back of COVID19 restrictions.
Wizz Air, on the other hand has introduced enhanced health and safety measures as it restarts its Luton base. The airline is introducing selected Luton flights from 1 May 2020 as well as additional hygiene measures to ensure the health and safety of passengers and staff.
Norwegian has limited flight schedules until further notice.
Tip #6– Your travel insurance does not cover every disaster!
Which? Holiday urges the travel insurance industry to up its game