Airplanes put people in close quarters. In a packed airplane, you could be very close to dozens of people. This closeness is one of the reasons why plane travel often helps to spread illnesses like the novel coronavirus. How can you stay safe on a plane if you need to travel? Learn more about planes and the coronavirus. Keep in mind that many of these precautions can also help you to avoid getting other diseases, like the flu.

Avoiding Coronavirus on a Plane

There is no 100% guarantee when it comes to viruses in general. Precautions may help to minimize your risk of getting the coronavirus. You can do several things to possibly lower your risk of getting the novel coronavirus, including:

Wash your hands. Use soap and water to wash your hands. It’s recommended to scrub for at least 20 seconds before you rinse the soap away. No sink? Hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol can do the trick in a pinch. Just remember not to touch your face until you can properly wash your hands. 

• Bring your own disinfectant wipes. You can use the wipes to clean the surfaces that you touch. It may help to keep you and everybody else safer.
• Avoid people. This one is much more difficult on a flight. Try to take a window seat. It will keep you a little bit away from the high-traffic area of the aisle. 
• Get a row by yourself. Get the scoop on available seats by asking the gate agents about seats. You may be able to improve your odds of getting a whole row by yourself.
• Stay out of the bathroom. If you have a short flight, you should try to avoid using the plane bathroom. But sometimes you just need to go. Wash your hands after you’re done and squirt on some hand sanitizer as soon as you’ve returned to your seat.
• Drink more water. Staying hydrated can help your immune system to be strong. Opt for plain water on your flight instead of soda or alcoholic beverages.
• Choose a newer plane. You may have the option to get on a newer model plane. Older planes have altitude pressures that can dry out your sinuses. Newer planes have slightly higher humidity levels, which can offer some protection. Your mucous membranes are less effective at fighting off germs and viruses when they are dried out. 

Coronavirus and Planes

You can take precautions to lower your risk of getting the coronavirus. Planes may be unavoidable travel for some. You can be mindful of your conditions and take extra steps to minimize your risk of becoming severely ill with the coronavirus.