In early December 2019, a new strain of the coronavirus was identified in Wuhan, China. Three months down the line WHO declared the virus a pandemic. This has led to many countries taking special quarantine and safety measures to ensure the safety of its citizens.
The most recent being a suspension of airline flights.
Airlines in Europe, Asia and North America have cancelled flights to control the rate of spread of this virus. And Canada is no different.
Changes You Should Expect
Following Canada’s COVID-19 travel ban, Canada’s air travel began suspending service to international travelers.
From Monday, all airlines are expected to screen incoming passengers. Additionally, an airline also has the power to refuse giving services to anyone showing the Covid-19 symptoms.
Transport Canada also issued an interim order stating that all inbound passengers:
- Displaying a fever—over 38 degrees Celsius;
- Coughing and
- Breathing difficulties;
Should not be allowed to board.
The only exception to this rule comes if the passenger has a medical certificate saying the symptoms are not because of Covid-19.
Passengers are also required to give information on whether they were denied travel for these symptoms in the last 14 days. If yes, they should not board without a medical certificate. Non – compliance results in a $5,000 penalty.
Airlines should also deny boarding to all passengers who are not exempt from the new measures.
Exemptions include:
- Canadian citizens.
- Their immediate family members.
- Permanent residents.
- Among others.
A $25,000 fine is due for corporations that do not comply with these new safety measures. Normal operations should return after June 30, when the travel ban ends.
Airlines have their own safety measures
Airlines across Canada also have containment measures as a response to Covid-19.
Some airlines have decided to either limit or halt their operations altogether.
Below are some safety measures taken by airlines across the country:
