Flying commercial and traveling remains highly discouraged by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in light of the coronavirus pandemic. In Belize, our borders remain closed while even domestic travel within Belize is restricted. However, essential travel remains open abroad for a handful of customers. For these at-risk passengers traveling, they can expect Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on their next American Airlines flight. As such, American Airlines will be the first in the U.S. to hand out face masks (PPE) on commercial flights.
American Airlines will now distribute hand sanitizing wipes or gel, as well as face masks, to flyers by May 4th, 2020. The airline announced these new measures in a press release on Monday.
Our team members on the frontline are truly going above and beyond during this time,” says Kurt Stache, AA’s Senior Vice President of Customer Experience. “Their commitment is nothing short of incredible. We will continue to work with them to make sure they have the equipment they need to feel safe.”
American also noted that cleaning practices have always met or exceeded all guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Not to mention, all American Airlines’ mainline aircrafts are already equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. Cabin air is changed approximately every 2-4 minutes, which is the standard for hospitals.
By May 1st, American Airlines’ flight attendants will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), like face masks. Additionally, company employees will expand their efforts to disinfect customer areas. This includes common areas on planes and customer service spots outside of gates. Specifically, using a sanitizer approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
