Air Travel in the Age of COVID
As the warm days of spring draw near, vaccination efforts are ramping up to unprecedented levels and many are cautiously optimistic for the future. While international travel may still be a way’s off, experts suggest that domestic air travel may begin to pick up as early as this summer.
When it’s time to return to the open skies, these tips and recommendations will help keep you safe, as you make the most of your much-needed vacation.
TSA Recommendations
When possible, avoid touching high-traffic surfaces, and carry a hand-sanitizer on your person at all times. The TSA is currently allowing passengers to carry one liquid hand-sanitiser of up to 12 ounces per person, in carry-on bags as well as checked luggage. These containers will require separate screening, as they exceed the standard 2.4-ounce allowance. Passengers are also allowed to bring individually-wrapped anti-bacterial wipes in either carry-ons or checked bags. This includes jumbo containers of hand wipes.
Wear a mask at all times. The TSA strongly encourages passengers to continue the use of facial coverings, regardless of vaccination status or local/state mandates. With vaccinations still in the rollout process and numerous COVID-19 variants on the rise, it is crucial to continue wearing masks inside terminals and other indoor spaces.
Passengers are advised to practice social distancing as well, maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others in high-traffic areas such as security screening and check-in queues. Signs and floor decals have been posted by the TSA throughout many American airports, reminding travelers of recommended guidelines.
If traveling with food, passengers are advised to pack edible items in clear, sealed plastic bags. This will reduce the risk of cross-contamination when placing items in security bins.
TSA Precheck is an expedited screening process that passengers can register for in advance. The program streamlines the security process, allowing passengers to leave laptops and food items in their carry-on bags. Approved passengers may also leave on their shoes, belts and jackets. TSA Precheck significantly reduces time spent in security checkpoints, reducing the risk of contact and COVID exposure.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Policies
Those planning to visit Austin should be aware of specific ABIA policies, as well. Please be advised that many international flights remain suspended at this time, and Austin-Bergstrom recommends contacting your specific airline regarding future airline travel.
Gates 1-4 remain closed at this time. The airport will monitor passenger levels, determining when it is safe and necessary for these gates to re-open.
Many concessions and eateries inside the terminal are either closed or operating under limited hours at this time. Hours of operation are subject to passenger demand, as well as staffing considerations. Open concessions will make use of features such as plexiglass, spaced-out tables, single-use menus and utensils, takeout options and contactless mobile ordering.
In security areas, the TSA has temporarily closed Security Checkpoint 3, with passengers being screened via Checkpoints 1 and 2 only. This will continue until further notice.
Cash is not currently accepted in the airport’s parking venues. Credit cards, debit cards and Frequent Parker cards must be used to pay. It is recommended that drivers exit through the credit card express lanes, to minimize in-person contact.
Valet parking operations are suspended at this time, and the Red Garage’s 3rd floor is currently closed to the public. The remaining floors of the Red Garage are open at this time. Due to the crowded nature of public shuttles, Economy Parking is temporarily closed. Economy Parking will resume operations once it can do so safely.
Contact-Free Travel
When traveling in the age of COVID, your mobile device is more vital than ever before. Airlines, hotels, car rentals and even restaurants are offering contactless service via mobile phones and tablets. Your phone is now effectively your boarding pass, your hotel key, your dining menu and more.
It is advised to check with your airline, accommodations etc. to ensure contactless service are available before departure. If relying heavily on mobile options, it can pay to pack along an extra power bank for your device, and perhaps a spare charging cable as well.
In the event of technological difficulties, it is wise to have paper copies of all necessary documentation on hand. This includes proof of COVID vaccinations and documents proving a negative COVID test within five days of your departure date, as many airlines and travel companies will require these forms.
Wherever your travels take you this year, we hope your journey will be a safe one.
Looking for a hotel close to the airport? Check these 5 Hotels Near Austin-Bergstrom Airport
After all that traveling, are you feeling hungry for some Chinese food? Check out these Chinese restaurants in Austin.
