Sitting close to hundreds of random strangers from all over the world may sound like a recipe for a COVID disaster. Although it appears to most as a dangerous choice, the ratio of people to cases is slimmer you think. According to Arnold Barnett, a professor of statistics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Sloan School of Management, “The risk of catchingthe virus on a full flight is just 1 in 4,300. Those odds fall to 1 in 7,700 if the middle seat is vacant.” He also goes on to say “Three things have to go wrong for you to get infected (on a flight). There has to be a Covid-19 patient on board and they have to be contagious. If there is such a person on your flight, assuming they are wearing a mask, it has to fail to prevent the transmission.” In these uncertain times, much of the population fears flying as it looks and sounds like one of the riskiest ways to travel during a worldwide pandemic. However, Barnett’s recent studies dig a little deeper into the true risk you take while being onboard a flight alongside other passengers.
One reason why flying isn’t as dangerous as it may seem is the ventilated fresh air. Air crafts are ventilated, producing fresh air every two to three minutes. Airplanes are also equipped with air filters that can trap harmful particles. During a flight that took place on March 31 from the US to Taiwan , they had been carrying twelve passengers who showed symptoms. However, all of the other passengers tested negative, as well as the crew members. In addition to this example, various requirements are also implemented throughout the cabin during the flight. The first standard rule are face masks. Both passengers and the crew must wear face coverings. Another safety procedure is taking temperatures of both the staff and oncoming passengers. Lastly, the crew does thorough and intensive cabin cleaning throughout the flight to ensure safety and security of the passengers on board.
Photo courtesy of Raul Sifuentes/Getty Images
Previously mentioned professor Arnold Barnett believes that you will also have lessened chances if a full face shield is worn, in addition to a mask for more secure protection. The photo on the right showcases a face shield being worn by both the staff and the passenger. Another policy is keeping the middle seat in the row open, meaning a smaller capacity. This middle seat policy has been adopted by several popular airlines such as Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways. The goal of airlines during the virus is to provide as much comfort and safety to all passengers as best they can. Airlines understand the severity of the situation and are helping lessen the fear of the people in any ways they’re able.
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