Airports and airlines have implemented robust protocols at every stage of the passenger journey to ensure it is as safe as possible. Industry partners have also published and continuously updated guidelines and tips on how to travel safely and responsibly for citizens.
The risk of catching COVID-19 on an aircraft remains extremely low. An aircraft’s internal ventilation system makes use of HEPA filters, which guarantee an ongoing circulation of fresh air, which keeps the possibility of transmission extremely low. This, coupled with the wearing of a mask and further precautionary measures, makes travelling very safe for all passengers and crews.
Countless studies have shown that travel positively affects our health and wellbeing thanks to its ability to reconnect us with nature, loved ones, and most importantly, ourselves. Travel relieves our stress and anxiety while enhancing our energy and creativity.
Travel gives everyone a chance to spend time outdoors and connect with nature, especially for people who live in the city. A study shows that spending at least 120 minutes in nature improves your health and wellbeing.
The EU Digital COVID Certificate is a digital or paper proof confirming that you have been vaccinated, tested negative, or recovered from COVID-19. It is intended to make it easier to travel in a safe way and restore freedom of movement for EU citizens. The certificate system is already in use by several EU countries, including Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Croatia and Poland – with remaining EU countries expected to implement the system by the end of July. For more information, click here.
Make sure you follow national guidance by getting the right information from the right sources. It is easy to get lost searching for the right information for your next trip. Official governments and international institutions’ websites, as well as associations representing the sector, are the only trustworthy sources. Here are helpful hubs where you can find the right information:
Europeans can do more than respecting national and European guidance to travel safely. Some useful tips include:
European countries have to harmonise their approach on travel restrictions, allowing travellers to understand the rules and stay safe. We need a coordinated, clear, unified approach in Europe so we can safely travel and reignite the tourism industry this summer.
Quarantines should be replaced by the use of a common EU Digital COVID Certificate in all EU member states to ensure safe travel and tourism in Europe.
An EU testing protocol would ensure that the same requirements apply to travellers depending on the risk zone they are travelling from/to. In turn, this will allow the removal of quarantines and to re-establish the free and safe movement of Europeans.
Help us spread the word. Safe travel and tourism in Europe is both vital and possible this summer!
Ask your political representative or local authority to get involved in making this vision a reality! You can find some downloadable posts which are easy to share for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn here.