FAQ n.115315

Are there special procedures in place on board the aircraft to prevent spread of the virus?

Answer

Airlines have been provided with specialist technical instructions to ensure the air quality in the cabin is as high as possible. The air quality in the cabin is higher than many of us regularly breathe on the ground. This is because the entire air supply is typically exchanged every 3-5 minutes. In addition, most modern aircraft use high quality filters, known as HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which are fine enough to trap the viral load and release clean air. 

Passengers themselves are expected to behave responsibly for their own welfare and for the good of their fellow passengers. In particular, you will be expected to adopt:

  • Hand hygiene, particularly before eating or drinking and after use of the toilet
  • Appropriate use of medical face masks 
  • Respiratory etiquette – cough or sneeze into a paper towel or flexed elbow
  • Limiting contact – do not touch cabin surfaces unnecessarily and try to stay in the seat as much as possible
  • Reducing the use of individual air supply nozzles as far as  possible, unless otherwise advised by the cabin crew on your flight
Last updated
09/06/2020

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