Many people are now wondering whether it is responsible to take the airplane when going on (summer) holidays. Therefore, the Christian Democrats in the European Parliament have taken up the topic "Corona and Tourism". In a comprehensive paper, the Members of Parliament are pressing for tourism to be allowed to resume, but: at the same time, they are calling for strict measures to prevent a second corona wave. In particular, they call for the recommendations by the European agencies responsible for aviation as well as the agency responsible for disease control (EASA and ECDC) to be rapidly implemented. Concretely this means: wearing masks needs to be mandatory and distancing needs to be ensured in airplanes. EASA and ECDC have proposed that the airlines should ensure that social distancing not only kept at the airport but also in the aircraft, meaning that at least the middle seat must be left free or a whole row.

"We are aware that this is an economic challenge for the airlines and passengers (less benefits and/or higher prices), but after many discussions with experts I am convinced that these measures are urgently needed to prevent the risk of an infection in the aircraft. Airlines argue that there is reduced the risk in the cabin with the installed ventilation systems and filters. However, the filters and the ventilation systems cannot completely prevent an infection, otherwise we could immediately install them in all nurseries and primary schools, because in my view it is more important to take care of children, especially those who have a difficult time at home, than it is for us to go on holiday. However, the ventilation systems and the filters do not protect to the fullest extent. In particular, an infection is quite likely if a passenger coughs heavily who is sitting right next to me in a crowded plane. On longer flights, it is also unavoidable that passengers drink something in between for which alone you have to take off the masks. I feel it is very unjust that owners of restaurants, fitness studios or similar have to adhere to distancing rules, even though it also means economic damage for them, while the airlines are simply ignoring these rules arguing with economic efficiency. That is why the airlines must either implement the recommendation voluntarily or the European Union must initiate legislation" says the health policy spokesperson of that parliamentary group and doctor, Dr Peter Liese.

Guidance for the management of airline passengers in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic (EASA - ecdc - 21.05.2020)

EPP PAPER ON TOURISM STRATEGY (27.05.2020)