Staying in the loop about what to do when flying is essential in the present scenario. You should have proper knowledge of things to do while flying and things to completely avoid, with a view towards ensuring not only your own safety but that of your fellow passengers too. With the COVID-19 pandemic still spreading its tentacles worldwide, flying will naturally pose the risk of coming into close contact with other individuals and commonly touched surfaces throughout the airport and aeroplane itself.

This may be otherwise nerve-wracking, although you should know that there are some essential tips for flying internationally or domestically that will help you out in this situation. If you are fully vaccinated, you will have more protection from the coronavirus, thereby ensuring a little more flexibility in operating. Yet, you will still have to follow all precautions while flying, including maintaining distance from others as much as possible and wearing your mask. If you are not vaccinated, you will have to take even more precautions while booking your flight and also when you are in the airport and on the flight itself.

Here are some health tips for long flights during COVID or even regular domestic flights, for that matter.

  • Book your flight smartly- Lowering coronavirus risks will go hand in hand with how smartly you choose to book your flight. This includes avoiding any layovers and selecting relatively nearby destinations if you are flying only for pleasure. You should check the airline portal for details of safety measures being followed on the plane and terminals. Check the seat distance and try to book a convenient seat for yourself which ensures at least some distance if possible.
  • Do not neglect to wear your mask- All airlines will require you to wear a mask at the airport and also when you are on the aircraft. There will be exceptions, of course, when you are drinking or eating. Yet, try and wear your mask all the time except for the occasional bite and sip. This is because it will protect you and other people equally from COVID-19. This part should not be neglected at all.
  • Sanitising and avoiding face contact- Airplanes and airports are filled with common surfaces that are touched by all individuals. Airlines are already recurring on the touchpoints through measures like contactless check-in and so on. Yet, there will always be luggage bins, door handles, escalator banisters and even other items that you cannot avoid. Hand hygiene is vital, and you should carry a hand sanitiser for frequent use, which contains at least 60% alcohol. Keep applying after touching common surfaces. Avoid touching your face by all means. Wash your hands properly after using the restroom.
  • Maintaining Distance- On the aircraft itself, you cannot really do anything about the distance bit. Yet, while you are in the terminal and airport, you can easily spread out and sit away from other people. This will mean sitting at a gate that is less crowded. Maintaining distance is another tip that you should always remember.
  • Reconsider traveling if there is rapid community spread- If you are traveling somewhere for work/leisure or returning home, reconsider if community spread is higher at the destination point. Consider whether coronavirus is spreading rapidly where you live or from where you are taking the flight. If the spread is high there, then without knowing it, you may inadvertently spread the virus to other people via the flight.
  • Never travel if you are not well - Coronavirus has a 14-day incubation duration, unlike the usual flu, which requires 2 days at least. Many airports are holding temperature checks upon departure, arrival and even for those in transit. Hence, if you have a fever or slight temperature, you may be denied boarding. As a result, do not travel if you are not well.
  • Practice good hygiene measures- Cover up your nose and mouth when you are coughing. Constantly sneeze into the elbow and keep your mask on for safeguarding other travelers.
  • Cleaning Up Surfaces- While several airlines will undoubtedly invest more time and resources into additional cleaning measures, there is no guarantee that every surface is fully disinfected. Hence, have antibacterial wipes or sprays for cleaning the seat armrest, air vent, seat-back pocket, seat touch screen, window blind and headrest. The same goes for remote controls, magazines and other items. 
  • Upgrades- This is the best time to upgrade to first-class or business class on flights, giving you more space and potentially lower contact with other travelers.
  • Beating humidity- To beat humidity and dryness, use a nasal spray and also drink more water.

These are some helpful tips that you should know while flying during COVID-19. A little care and caution on your part go a long way towards keeping everyone safe.

Daydream Island has all the safety measures and is accepting visitors around the world. At the best resort in Queensland, we have sanitised rooms and dining areas. All the staff and visitors are monitored regularly to maintain health and say stay.