Amidst all the fear factors associated with travel these days, travellers can now take a sigh of relief based on studies and research done by the air travel authorities recently. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) revealed in a report that the risk of catching COVID -19 virus is incredibly low in air travel.

Since the beginning of 2020, only 44 cases of COVID have been reported out of 1.2 billion passengers travelled so far. These reassuringly low figures will certainly provide a lot of comfort to the journeys associated with flights. So, how did that magic happen?

Useful insights came from the joint publication by top plane makers - Airbus, Boeing and Embraer. Each aircraft manufacturers conducted computational fluid dynamics (CFD) research by adopting separate methodologies in their aircrafts. Each simulation confirmed that aircraft airflow systems, high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, natural barrier of the seatback, downward flow of air and high rates of air exchange have reduced the chances of spreading of virus.

It has also been seen that mandatory usage of masks provided an additional protection even seated in close proximity in aircrafts. Further to that, managed queuing, contactless processing, reduced movement in the cabin, simplified onboard services and restrictions in airports during check-ins and check-outs are among the multiple measures the aviation industry has taken to keep flying safe.

On a lighter note, Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO says, “the risk of contracting the virus on board appears to be in the same category as being struck by lightning”. So next time you are planning your travel you are advised to book an air ticket at the first place. With the combination of various measures being made effective, the travellers can have their freedom to fly again.