COVID infection rate in planes lower than 0.1%
Monday, September 20, 2021
A recent peer-reviewed study proves that taking a plane is less risky than some passengers might think.
The study was conducted from December 2020 until May 2021 by the Georgia Department of Health and Mayo Clinic, in conjunction with Delta Airlines. The base for it was a special test program that allowed for a limited number of flights between the United States (New York-JFK and Atlanta) and Italy (Rome Fiumicino). If determined COVID-free on arrival, passengers did not have to quarantine.
Nearly 10,000 passengers were tested, of which only 5 were found to be infected with COVID-19. This gives an infection rate of 0.05%. The average community infection rate at that time was 1.1%.
Researchers conclude that an obligatory molecular test (usually a PCR test) done within 72 hours before the flight significantly reduces the chance of spreading COVID-19 on a plane.
As Dr. Henry Ting, the Chief Health Officer at Delta Airlines and one of the researchers responsible for the study, explained: "We are going to live with COVID-19 variants for some time. This real-world data — not simulation models — is what governments around the world can use as a blueprint for requiring vaccinations and testing instead of quarantines to re-open borders for international travel."
COVID-19 still has an enormous impact on the aviation industry. If your flight has been cancelled, we can help you get your money back — instead of an airline voucher. Plus, if your flight has taken place but has been delayed by 3 or more hours, know that you are most likely eligible for compensation.
Check your flight today using our easy-to-use Claim Calculator and see how much money you can get back.