While flying during COVID-19 may not be for everyone, after a 6 month hiatus from traveling longer distances and only doing road trips, we decided it was time. At this point in the pandemic, we are all making choices. We are weighing out the pros and cons of every decision we make. We all have different comfort levels and after doing research on what the airlines are doing (see my post about that here) it was an easy choice to book our flight with Delta Airlines.
Before Our Flight
Delta started days prior sending emails regarding how to prepare for our trip. This included links to how they’re keeping travelers safe throughout their journey, reviewing regional travel requirements, and in case you changed your mind – how to modify or cancel the itinerary. For more information about Delta specifically, check out their website by clicking here.
Two days prior, I received another email with information about what has changed – from sanitizing to filtering cabin air to their new procedures for boarding and blocking middle seats. The email also states that all employees and customers are required to wear a mask throughout their travel journey, using the app for digital access to boarding passes and confirming travelers are healthy to fly with no symptoms, have not been exposed or tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days. All of the information given put me at ease about flying during COVID-19.
Travel Day
After arriving to GSP, we were surprised by the amount of cars in the parking garage. We already checked in for our flight, but had to check our luggage which was a breeze. TSA Pre-Check was also easy and we were through within minutes. Most of the shops within the airport were closed, but everyone I noticed wore a mask correctly.
Before boarding, they announced we would be boarding from the back of the plane to practice social distancing and limit contact. They called a few rows at a time and to be honest, I think boarding should always be from the back of the plane. We were in a large plane (the largest I’ve ever been on from GSP) with multiple flight attendants. Once we were aboard, we were handed a plastic bag with a Purell wipe, a napkin, water, and snacks. We wiped down our areas with our wipes and buckled in. Shortly after, the flight attendants did state that masks were required throughout the duration of the flight and both the nose and mouth must be covered and if worn incorrectly, they would remind you. The exception is when someone is actively eating or drinking.
After the safety briefing, they did add that in the case of loss of pressure in the cabin, you must remove your mask before putting the oxygen mask.
When deplaning in Atlanta, everyone waited until those in front of them were headed down the aisle to grab their bags and proceed to their next destination.
As a frequent Delta Airlines traveler, I have had my fair share of layovers in Atlanta and while they were people, it’s not the hustle and bustle that it usually is. It was quite enjoyable. We grabbed sandwiches (and cake!) from the Boars Head kiosk for lunch on the plane. We boarded our flight to Vegas and the same standards as the first flight happened. Once we landed, the Vegas Airport was full of signs requiring masks and how important they are to keep everyone safe.
Final Thoughts
Our flight was pleasant and as my father in law says, uneventful. Danny read most of the flight, I listened to podcasts, bought both Danny and I voting shirts (thanks for the Wifi, T-Mobile) and napped. Everyone was respectful, wore their masks and maintained distance. We enjoyed the blocked middle seats as I am a window gal and Danny is an aisle guy. To be honest, I felt safer traveling than I do at the grocery store. I actually much preferred traveling now due to the limited crowds. Flying during COVID-19 doesn’t have to be full of worries or fear, as long as you take the right precautions, wear your mask and social distance.
