Face masks, blood tests and onboard janitors. Flying’s about to feel very different

Even as some airlines move to resume service when countries ease coronavirus restrictions, it’s unlikely the experience will feel much like the type of flying we’ve come to know. Airlines have been one of the sectors hardest hit by the pandemic, with many carriers forced to park entire fleets — or close for good — while the industry racks up estimated losses of $252b. Now, as operators try to emerge from the ashes, they will have to implement a host of changes to get back off the ground. Many of those will depend on government guidelines. Bi- and multi-lateral agreements will be required before most long-haul flights can return, for instance, notes Peter Harbison, chairman emeritus of Centre for Aviation (CAPA). Meanwhile, airports will need to design their own comprehensive health and safety measures, likely involving biometrics and touchless check-in. And that’s all before you get to departures. Story looks in detail at how things might look once you reach your gate, such as the introduction of health screenings, a change in cabin layouts and more.<br/>