What to Expect When Flying During the Pandemic

Is it safe to fly right now? How will things go if you do? I just got back from my first trip since the pandemic started. I was a bit nervous about flying again for the first time since the pandemic started. I had heard about the new safety precautions so I honestly wasn’t worried about not being safe while traveling. But I was unsure what to expect at the airport and during the flight itself.

I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth everything actually went during my travels. Like with everything there are pros and cons so I wanted to share both so that you can weigh the options yourself. If you are uneasy about flying again or just curious how it works in these times I hope that by sharing my personal experience it will give you a better idea of what to expect.

Fewer People Flying

During these uncertain times, the airlines have taken a big hit. With places shutting down people aren’t traveling like they used to. Fewer people are flying which has both pluses and minuses. On the plus side, fewer people flying means, tickets are at a low price-wise and the airports are less crowded. Both of these were bonuses to me. For my trip, I got a round trip ticket from a small airport in North Carolina to San Diego, CA for around $230 total. Normally it would cost between $400-$500.

Be Flexible

Fewer people flying also means fewer flights which means fewer options and more flight cancellations and changes. I was able to find good flights I wanted but both of my flights ended up having time changes about a month before my trip. If you do choose to fly make sure to be flexible and understand that changes and cancellations may very well happen.

Fewer flights and options can also mean fuller planes. Out of my five flights all but one were completely packed with every seat taken. I have heard of some airlines blocking off the middle seat on all flights until a certain date. I have also heard about airlines making you pay for two tickets if you want the middle seat blocked. Most things I have heard are that most flights are full because of fewer options.

Wait Times

Prior to flying on this recent trip, I was most concerned about wait times. I figured with social distancing it would take longer to go through security and board/deboard the airplane. I was pleasantly surprised to see how quickly things actually went on my trip. Security was a breeze both times. Boarding the plane went as it normally does. The only thing I felt took a bit longer was deboarding. Overall with airports less crowded, it means shorter wait times in general.

At the Airport

The airports have adjusted to no-touch methods very well. You can check-in for your flight and get any bags checked in at home prior to going to the airport. You can also use a mobile boarding pass which is super convenient. If you prefer to print boarding passes at the airport or check bags and have an attendant assist you, you can still do that as well.

Due to less demand, some airport restaurants and bars may be closed. I saw quite a few in different airports during layovers that were not open. There are still quite a few that are open but just keep that in mind if you plan to grab a quick bite in the airport.

People sitting are good about maintaining social distancing in the airport and waiting areas. During my layovers, everyone was very respectful of the space between other travelers.

Boarding

The boarding process seemed as normal as it was prior to the pandemic. Everyone boards in groups and there are spots on the ground for social distancing. This was the one time no one adhered to social distancing while at the airport.

The deboarding process seemed to go a little slower than usual. Due to social distancing, the flight attendants asked everyone to stay seated and exit one row at a time starting from the front to the back. Despite this everyone seemed to move at a good speed and not hold others up longer than necessary.

In-Flight

There were no in-flight services on any of my flights. Due to this, I recommend bringing your own food and drinks from the airport onto the flight with you. The airline mentioned this prior to boarding as well to give you a heads up. I flew with my own water bottle so I filled it prior to boarding any flight.

While there are no in-flight services you can still request something if needed during your flight. On all of my flights while boarding the flight attendants handed out a little baggy with a sanitizing wipe. Most of my flights they also handed out a small bottle of water and a little snack.

Masks

Masks are mandatory and monitored. They are required in the airports, while boarding and during the whole flight. The only exception is for when you are eating or drinking. They checked multiple times before take-off to ensure everyone was wearing their mask. Everyone I encountered on my journey was respectful and there weren’t any issues.

**Please note: most airlines require anyone aged 2 and up to wear a mask. When I traveled it was solo so it wasn’t an issue but I have heard quite a few stories of young kids (even age 2) who got kicked off of planes because they wouldn’t keep a mask on. Just something to keep in mind if you are traveling with kids. I haven’t flown with my kids and am so nervous to do so because of this rule.

Know the Requirements of Your Destination

Make sure to know ahead of time if your destination has any quarantine requirements. Some places like Hawaii and New York have a 14-day quarantine requirement to enter from certain states. Double-check if your destination has any restrictions or quarantine requirements prior to taking the flight.

Follow airline guidelines and attendant instructions during your flight and it will be a smooth trip. Just remember that no matter your personal beliefs these policies are in place to keep everyone comfortable. Be respectful and considerate of others’ feelings. For me, any inconvenience is minor and worth it to be able to travel. Whether you choose to stay home or hop on a flight, be safe!