Airports: Safe Or Not?

Air travel has become a topic of concern for many, with a series of incidents involving aircraft malfunctions and safety issues making headlines in recent times. While these incidents have raised questions about the safety of air travel, experts suggest that there is no cause for widespread alarm.

The aviation industry's safety record remains strong, with commercial air travel enjoying its safest period in history. The number of fatal commercial aviation accidents worldwide has decreased, with only six recorded accidents in 2023, resulting in 115 deaths—the lowest on record. This downward trend is further supported by data from the National Transportation Safety Board, which shows a reduction in major accidents involving large U.S. carriers.

While incidents such as hydraulic leaks, tire blowouts, and runway excursions can be alarming, experts emphasize that they are often less severe than they seem. Planes are designed with backup systems and fail-safes, and pilots are highly trained to manage such situations. Additionally, the complex nature of aviation means that problems rarely have a singular cause, and most serious issues result from multiple factors.

However, it is important to acknowledge that aviation personnel may have less experience than previous generations, and the increased automation in newer planes can present challenges when issues arise. Nonetheless, the overall safety record of newer planes is positive, and the industry constantly monitors and reviews risks to enhance safety protocols.

While there is no evidence of a significant safety trend, it is understandable that the public is more attuned to these incidents due to increased media coverage and social media sharing. As a result, it is essential to stay informed, follow safety protocols, and make travel decisions based on a comprehensive understanding of the risks involved.

Safety of air travel during the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a new set of concerns for those considering air travel. While countries have partially resumed air travel, strict COVID-19 guidelines have been implemented to control the spread of the virus. The biggest concerns for air travellers are travelling with a passenger with an unknown infection status and getting infected by a fellow passenger.

Air circulation and filtration

The air quality within modern commercial aircraft is enhanced by frequent air changes, with a complete air change every 2-4 minutes. Air is taken from outside the aircraft and mixed with recycled air from the cabin, which has been passed through a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. HEPA filters have the capacity to filter 99.7% of particles above the 0.3-micron sizes. The airflow occurs at the row level, reducing the possibility of transmission between rows.

Social distancing

Social distancing is a preferred measure for many travellers, especially those over 65 years old. However, maintaining proper social distancing of at least 6 feet is impossible on most commercial aircraft. Some airlines are blocking middle seats and limiting capacity on flights, but the seats are still much closer than 6 feet.

Face masks

The use of face masks is mandatory on board for most airlines. A recent review in the Journal of Travel Medicine found that the "strict use of masks appears to be protective". Dr Julian Tang, a consultant virologist at the UK's Leicester Royal Infirmary, adds that "if we all wear masks, we all protect each other".

Other risks

Other risks include waiting in the airport, embarking or disembarking, touching contaminated surfaces, and unwell crew members moving up and down the aisles. Viruses could survive for hours on shared armrests, toilet door handles, or seat trays.

Overall risk

The overall risk of transmission of COVID-19 during a flight depends on various factors, such as the nature and mode of transmission of the disease, seating proximity to an infected passenger, the movement of other passengers and crew, and physical proximity before or after the flight. While the risk of transmission is minimal, it cannot be eliminated entirely.

Aircraft cabin air and ventilation systems

The air on planes is very clean, thanks to top-of-the-range ventilation systems. Air is taken from outside the aircraft and mixed with recycled air from the cabin, which has been passed through a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, similar to those used in hospitals. The current COVID-19 virus is about 125 nanometres in diameter, which is well within the particle size range (10 nanometres and above) that the filters can capture.

The air flows in a specific pattern to reduce the risk of infection on board. It flows vertically downwards from above passengers' heads in a circular pattern towards outflow grills along both side walls of the cabin near the floor. Air enters and leaves the cabin at approximately the same seat row, and airflow in forwards and backward directions is minimal. This means that the movement of passengers and crew in the cabin has little impact on the intended airflow patterns.

When an aircraft is parked at the gate with its engines off, passenger cabin ventilation is usually supplied by an air-conditioning unit connected to the aircraft ventilation system, a ground pneumatic source, the aircraft's auxiliary power unit, or natural airflow through the aircraft's open door(s). Once the engines are started, the auxiliary power unit is usually shut down, and the air supply to the cabin is then drawn from the compressor stages of the engines.

Aircraft manufacturers are exploring other options for aircraft ventilation. For example, some future models will draw air through a specific electric compressor rather than through the aircraft engines.

Ventilation systems are only effective when they are in use. The ventilation system is typically turned off during the boarding and deplaning process and if the plane is delayed on the tarmac. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the ventilation system is operational during ground delays. The United States Department of Transportation recommends that "if the ventilation system is not operating, passengers should not stay aboard the plane for long time periods (i.e. greater than 30 minutes)".

In addition to ventilation, other factors that affect the spread of COVID-19 on aircraft include maintaining distance and wearing masks. While it is impossible to maintain a distance of 6 feet on most commercial aircraft, some airlines have blocked middle seats to ensure distancing. All airlines now require face masks to be worn on board, and some have taken aggressive steps to ensure compliance.

The risks of transmission in airports

Airports are busy places, full of people coming and going from all over the world. So, it's no surprise that they come with certain risks, especially in the context of a global pandemic. Here are some of the key risks associated with transmission in airports, along with ways to mitigate those risks.

High-Touch Surfaces

One of the main risks of transmission in airports is through contaminated surfaces. High-touch surfaces, such as check-in kiosks, handrails, door handles, and seats in waiting areas, can be a breeding ground for viruses. The risk is heightened when these surfaces are not regularly cleaned and disinfected.

Close Proximity to Others

Airports tend to be crowded, making it challenging to maintain physical distance from others. This close proximity increases the risk of transmission, especially if individuals are not wearing masks or face coverings. The risk is further elevated in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, as the virus can linger in the air for longer periods.

Shared Amenities

Airports often have shared amenities like restaurants, restrooms, and shopping areas. These areas can increase the risk of transmission, especially if people are not adhering to public health guidelines, such as proper hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

International Travel

Airports facilitate international travel, which can contribute to the rapid transmission of diseases across borders. A sick individual can unknowingly carry an infection from one part of the world to another, potentially spreading it to others along the way.

Strategies to Reduce Risk

While airports present certain transmission risks, there are strategies to mitigate these risks:

• Wear a mask or face covering: Wearing a mask is one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets and protect yourself and others.
• Practice physical distancing: Maintain a safe distance from others whenever possible. Avoid crowded areas, and be mindful of your surroundings, especially in enclosed spaces.
• Practice good hand hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizers, especially after touching surfaces or before eating.
• Avoid touching your face: Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as these are entry points for viruses.
• Disinfect surfaces: If you're going to be sitting or placing items on a surface, consider disinfecting it first. Carry disinfectant wipes with you, and wipe down armrests, tray tables, and other surfaces before use.
• Follow airport guidelines: Airports often have specific guidelines and protocols in place to reduce the risk of transmission. Follow these guidelines, which may include one-way routes, physical distancing markers, and plexiglass shields.
• Minimize time spent in airports: The longer you spend in an airport, the higher the potential risk of exposure. Plan your time accordingly, and consider spending time in outdoor areas if possible.

While airports present certain challenges in terms of transmission risk, implementing these strategies can help reduce the chances of infection and create a safer environment for travellers and staff.

Safety measures taken by airlines and airports

Airlines

Since the resumption of flight schedules, airlines have introduced new policies to maintain social distancing between passengers. For example, in North America, Southwest, Alaska, JetBlue, and Delta have blocked out middle seats to ensure distancing throughout the year. Most European airlines, however, are not limiting capacity. Airlines are also using electrostatic antimicrobial sprays to disinfect flights, either overnight or between flights, and providing disinfectant wipes and hand sanitiser to passengers. Most are also giving staff some form of PPE and making it compulsory for passengers to wear a face covering.

Airports

Airports have increased the frequency of cleaning schedules, introduced new sanitiser stations, and installed plexiglass shields in front of passenger-facing employees. They are also allowing passengers to unpack their own items during security checks. Many airports have also implemented new technologies to improve the boarding experience and reduce crowding. For example, technology at Albuquerque, Tucson, and Washington airports now triggers an alarm if a passenger scans their boarding pass before their group number is called.

General safety measures

Both airlines and airports are providing passengers with safety tips, such as how to get through the airport safely, how to secure belongings, and how to adhere to security protocols. Airlines are also providing passengers with important flight safety information through briefings and safety demonstrations.

How to stay safe on a plane

Flying is one of the safest modes of transport, but there are still risks involved. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on your next flight:

Before Your Flight

• Check the latest travel advice and guidelines.
• If possible, opt for a window seat. This will reduce your contact with other passengers.
• If travelling with others, ensure you book seats together.
• If you can, choose a flight that is not during peak hours, as this may reduce the number of passengers.
• Pack wisely. Avoid soft bags and opt for hard-sided or waterproof luggage to protect your belongings. Go for darker colours to conceal scratches, and ensure your suitcase has four wheels for easy manoeuvring.
• Avoid packing food, drinks, or liquids that may leak and damage your belongings or those of other passengers.

During Your Flight

• Keep your seatbelt fastened at all times, especially during takeoff and landing.
• Pay attention to the pre-flight safety briefing and study the evacuation cards. Knowing the procedures can improve your chances of a swift exit in an emergency.
• Keep your shoes on during the flight, especially during takeoff and landing.
• Avoid reclining your seat without asking the passenger behind you first.
• Be considerate of other passengers. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, keep personal items organised, and avoid strong scents or noisy activities.
• Follow the instructions of the flight crew. They are trained to handle emergencies and will provide guidance in the event of an incident.

After Your Flight

• If you are experiencing any symptoms or feel unwell after your flight, consider getting tested for COVID-19 or other illnesses.
• Monitor your health and follow local guidelines for isolation or quarantine if necessary.

Frequently asked questions