Now more than ever, preparation is key.
Conditions changing day by day. Reminds me of how we improvised securing the cockpit post 9/11.
If you are in the high-risk group (over 65, asthma, heart disease, other underlying disease) don’t fly.
Research your destination.
Don’t fly if you have a cold.
TSA bins probably filthy
You may be sitting next to a total stranger – not all airlines block middle seats.
Clothing:
no shorts or flip-flops!
I recommend long pants for women as well as men, and no high-heel shoes for women
I will discuss evacuation shortly
Face mask – actually TWO face masks (in case head band breaks) carbon filter n95
aerotoxic syndrome – only B787 does not use bleed air from pneumatic system
Anti-bacterial wipes
Hand sanitizer
Take your temperature before leaving home
If it’s above 100 you may not be allowed on the airplane
Put ALL medications into hand-carried bags
fanny pack even better
Wash hands after TSA screening
Bring empty water bottle – fill at filling station, not water fountain
Stay hydrated!
airline cabins have very low humidity
low humidity makes it harder for your body to fight off viruses
some aircraft, such as A350 and B787, have humidification systems.
Don’t drink alcohol
cabin typically at 8000 feet
already party hypoxic
being drunk is a type of hypoxia
easier to get drunk at altitude
Bring up to 12 ounces of sanitizer – possibly screening delay
Bring reading material, computer or kindle – DO NOT touch inflight magazine (if it exists)
Disinfect ALL seat surroundings
seat belt buckle
armrests
air vent
safety information card
tray table
Direct air vent onto yourself
Pay attention to FA safety briefing
Lavatories – disinfect EVERYTHING you touch!
flush handle
faucet handles
door handle
faucet will not give you 20 seconds to wash hands AND water may not be safe! – use hand sanitizer instead
disinfect everything again when you return to seat, including hands
Evac – Keep your shoes on for takeoff and landing
All occupants must be able to evacuate thru half exits in 90 seconds
One FA per 50 pax, more if needed to pass evac test
DO NOT bring bags with you –
loss of life for other pax
open overhead bins pose head risk to passengers
British Airways 2276 Las Vegas
American Airlines 383 Chicago photo Jose Castillo
Emirates 521 Dubai
Aeroflot SU 1492 Moscow