The Aviation industry was hit really hard by the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) reports a 50% drop in domestic passenger traffic globally and even worse decrease in international travel – 74%. But in the beginning of 2021 there is a glimmer of hope for those of us who wish to return to traveling. More and more people are choosing to overcome their fear of the pandemic and trust airlines in their quest to keep them safe and take them to the desired destination!

Truth is a lot of companies are flying and there are still destinations you can visit! The key to a successful trip is a good preparation and following the rules, enforced by the airlines. As passengers are starting to return to the planes, I thought it is a good idea to share with you some tips in my capacity of a flight attendant. No matter if you are traveling for work, fun, or visiting relatives, here are some recommendations that will make your trip during a pandemic much more pleasant.

1. Make a research about the destination

I am happy to see the tourists returning to the aircraft! Recently, we have restarted our flights from Sofia to Dubai and a lot of people are going on vacation there. This comes to show that there are destinations that accept tourists and are relatively safe. You can make a small Google search and check which places accept travelers from your country.

A really helpful tool for trips around Europe at this stage can be the Wizz Air Travel Planning Map. I like it, because you can choose your starting point and see the different countries on the map become colored in:

• Green – if there are no travel restrictions;
• Yellow – if there are partial restrictions (test/quarantine/residence) to enter the country via air;
• Red – if there is a full or partial entry ban.

The tool is quite new and, therefor, is not perfect, but it can be very useful and save you time in choosing where to go.

2. Always double-check the restrictions and required documents

Some countries require a PCR test or to fill out an online from before traveling. Not to mention quarantine on arrival. Even if you’ve traveled to the selected destination recently, rules of entry may not be the same now. The situation is dynamic and everything changes from day to day, so it is always better to be safe than to be denied boarding at the gate! One more thing – do not bother to ask the airline about the newest restrictions. The information they have may not be updated. Always contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your Embassy.

3. Wear a surgical mask

No mask, no travel! You probably already know that there is no chance to be accepted on board without a mask. If you do not wish to wear one, better do not bother to travel. It is obligatory both at the airport and on board. No exceptions are made, unless you have a valid medical certificate in English from your doctor (no anxiety badge can save you). And yes, crew has the right to deny boarding or to call the police on arrival if a certain passenger is not complying with the rules.

I would recommend a surgical mask just because some airlines (and even some countries like Germany for that matter) do not accept any other type, and it can be annoying if you are forced to buy one at the airport or on the plane on much higher price.

3. Do not expect to be able to keep distance all the time

Airports and airlines alike are trying to keep their passengers safe at all times. It is recommended to keep meter and a half distance between you and the other people while queueing, but, to be honest, this is not always possible. Also, do not be surprised to see that there is another passenger seating next to you in the plane. The check distribution of passengers was briefly discussed in the beginning of the pandemic, but never became enforced on board. Even the National carriers are selling all their seats if there are customers, willing to buy them,

4. Bring some snack with you

Even though food and drinks are served on board (no mask required while eating), the shops at the airport might be closed due to government restrictions. So it can be a few hours before being able to purchase food. It is a good idea to stack up on some candy bars, especially if you travel with children.

5. Always carry a pen

It is almost certain that you are going to be required to fill out one form or another sometime during your journey. It would be quite useful to have a pen with you. Not all airlines are providing one and, even if they do, you cannot be sure it has been disinfected after the previous use.

6. Buy your gifts onboard

If you’ve decided to get some duty free gifts for your loved ones, do not leave it for the shop at the destination airport. Some of them are closed due to the COVID 19 restrictions and you might be left empty-handed. Besides, from my experience, items on the aircraft are much cheaper, anyways!

7. Last but not least, arm yourself with patience

Due to the situation at the moment, the wait at the airport or on the aircraft (for disembarkation for example) could be a little bit longer than usual. There is extra time needed for the ground staff to be able to check all the new required documents. Also, less passengers are allowed to board at the same bus. Similarly, on arrival, boarder police and the Health authorities require more time to check all PCR tests. It is not pleasant, but usually the delay is no bigger than 20 minutes.

Unfortunately, COVID 19 changed so many things in our daily lives and travel is one of them. The sooner we accept that, the better. Going somewhere may not be so easy anymore, but the extra hustle is definitely worth it. So stay safe and I hope to see you on board soon!

Photos: Personal archive and Internet