Air Travel Increases to Highest Level Since the Beginning of the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the aviation sector in 2020, resulting in sweeping flight restrictions and a massive drop in travel worldwide. More than a year into the pandemic, air travel in the U.S. is finally regaining momentum.
With currently lower COVID-19 case numbers than over the winter holidays and highly effective vaccines being rapidly deployed, the travel industry, after being severely depressed for many months, appears to be poised for a recovery.
Indeed, according to the AP, the TSA screened more than 1.3 million travelers on each of March 12th and 14th of 2021. These screening numbers are the highest in a year, though still far off of 2019 numbers for the same time period. TSA.gov reported even higher levels of screening on several later dates in March 2021, the highest being on March 28th with more than 1.574 million travelers screened.
Anticipating a recovery and a sharp increase in demand, many airlines have announced new expanded schedules for the spring and summer, with several domestic and foreign flight resumption projects already completed. Airlines have now had over a year to react to the turmoil caused by COVID-19 and have understandably struggled to navigate the unprecedented restrictions that currently apply to the aviation industry. On a positive note, air travelers are now prepared to quarantine, show proof of negative COVID-19 tests and accept more limited destination options. With the Biden administration’s promise that every American aged 16 and over will have availability to the COVID-19 vaccine before summer, it makes sense that people will have greater confidence to begin traveling by air again and more frequently. Due to severe economic pressures, it also seems likely that the U.S. and other countries will begin to lift travel bans if COVID-19 case numbers can be relatively controlled.
Low Air Ticket Prices Continue for Now
Travelers are taking advantage of the current inexpensive ticket prices to take business and leisure trips that had to be deferred in 2020. A recent study by Dollar Flight Club indicated that due to the low number of travelers during last year and at the beginning of this year, many airlines have been forced to lower their ticket prices, aiming to entice potential travelers. As the low prices may not last for long, many travelers have opted to book tickets now before the prices creep back up and more normal travel resumes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is more popular than ever, since many travel insurance companies will now cover you if you contract COVID-19 before or during your trip. With COVID-19 coverage in place, many travelers feel able to book travel knowing that they have a safety net if they contract the virus while on their trip.
As reported by many outlets, U.S. air travel is increasing and is expected to continue to recover. If you want to travel in the near future, it may be wise to buy airline tickets while they are still inexpensive and travel insurance for financial safety and peace of mind.
