When will flights resume in France?
It should be possible to fly again within France from June, and within Europe from July, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is recommending – although this still need governmental approval.
IATA President Alexandre de Juniac said: “Normally, if the governments we are in discussion with follow our recommendations, people should be able to travel to within France from June, then within Europe in July-August, with reduced traffic and a slightly more limited number of destinations.”
From July, the association would like to reopen the continental market in Europe, North America and Asia. After this second phase, in the last trimester of the year, intercontinental flights could start again.
The IATA is to present its plan at the end of May and, if it is approved by governments, flights will begin again to that timetable.
However, passengers will have to go through a health screening process.
Mr de Juniac recommends that passengers present a health declaration stating they are in good health upon arrival at the airport, then complete a temperature check at the entrance of the terminal, and must be obliged to wear a mask both within the airport terminal and on the plane. Passengers could also be asked to travel with only one piece of cabin luggage to avoid congestion at the time of boarding.
Mr de Juniac said: "But if airlines are obliged to deactivate and not use the middle plane seat this will mean either not flying or raising prices by at least 50%."
He also added that the risk of contamination is "minimal" on board because of the air filtration and the fact that passengers are seated one behind the other and thus separated.
