COVID-19: Where and how is it possible to travel?

Most airlines adapted their booking policies to make travel planning more flexible. Many airline tickets can be changed at no charge. 

If you need a flexible ticket, check the following details before making the reservation :

• Is the flexible ticket policy under specific time limits?
• Is there a deadline for changing the ticket before departure?
• Is it possible to change the destination?
• How many changes are allowed?

These conditions may vary depending on the airline or the online travel agency issuing your ticket.This information is available on the provider’s website. 

Depending on your purchase date or travel date, a fare readjustment may apply. 

• You may be asked to fill a contact information form or a COVID-19 symptom-free declaration form. Depending on your destination, you might be able to fill them in advance to save time at the airport.
• It is advised to arrive at least 2 hours before take-off as the security process, including temperature checks, may take longer than usual.
• The access to the airport or certain terminals is restricted to the passengers holding a boarding pass.
• Wearing a facemask and respecting safety distances are mandatory at all times in the airport.

Some airlines are reducing contact with carry-on baggage on board. They may ask you to check your carry-on baggage at no additional charge. Prepare a smaller bag with only essential things to keep with you under the front seat.

• Wearing a mask is mandatory for the entire duration of the flight. Only single-use surgical masks or superior protection masks are accepted. Cloth masks are not accepted.
• It is recommended not to wear the same mask for more than 4 hours and to change it after drinking or eating. Remember to bring several masks with you, depending on the length of your trip.
• The air quality in the cabin is one of the safest. The air is renewed every 3 minutes and purified by HEPA filters, also used in hospitals.
• Cabin disinfection is reinforced according to the European Aviation Safety Agency standards.
• If catering services and duty free sales are offered on board, you will be asked to make your payments via credit card or cell phone.

Most airlines are still operating on a restricted schedule, depending on current travel conditions.

If your flight is cancelled, go directly to the website where you purchased your ticket (online travel agency or airline). The easiest and fastest solution at the moment is to request a voucher for the value of your ticket. You can request a voucher directly in the booking management area of the provider's website. Most airlines also offer a refund request form. Customer service hotlines are currently very busy, you will gain time by making your requests online whenever it is possible.

If you experience symptoms of COVID-19 or are in contact with someone tested positive before you leave, you will have to self-isolate and get tested as soon as possible. Contact your ticket provider to postpone or cancel your trip at no charge.

Some airlines, such as Emirates, offer COVID-19 insurance included in the ticket price to cover your additional costs in case of quarantine or hospitalization abroad. Alternatively, you can also turn to an independent travel insurance, mentioning the coverage of COVID-19 related expenses.

Contacting the website where you purchased your ticket is the only way to request a modification or a cancellation. Liligo is a travel comparison website, we do not have access to any reservation data.