What to Expect When Flying from a High COVID-19 State
What to Expect When Flying from a High COVID-19 State
I recently visited Rhode Island (Providence and Newport) and Massachusetts (Boston) and I'd like to share my experience for those who are considering travel by air. We flew aboard Southwest Airlines with a connection in Chicago Midway International Airport on the way there and returned via a connection through Baltimore/Washington International Airport.
When we left, none of the states were on New York's list for 14-day quarantine (including connections) however while we were away, Maryland was added, and Illinois has since been put on the list.
The airline crew keeping the seats clean
Shelley and family
Upon our return, when we arrived in Baltimore, the gate agents were advising all passengers to pick up a health form, which needs to be filled out by each adult with minors listed under one of the adults. As we awaited our departure, as well as when we were boarding, we were reminded of the form, which is required to be filled out upon arrival back into Buffalo. When we arrived, there were several people collecting the forms and authorities were stopping people who failed to turn in the form.
We received phone calls from Contact Tracing within days. All three adults in my family received calls, all from different people. Once we explained that we were in Rhode Island and Massachusetts and were just connected through Maryland, they confirmed there was no need for us to quarantine. At that point, our cases were "closed", and we were thanked for our time.
It's important to note the second paragraph of the first page of the document, which states that this quarantine does not apply to individuals passing through a designated state through the course of travel. Meanwhile those vacationing in a state on New York's quarantine list will be tracked and followed up on upon return and will need to quarantine.
With more states being added to New York's list, travelers should work with their travel consultant for guidance and should be prepared to quarantine as mandated.
Are you considering traveling, but have further questions? You can speak with one of our travel agents on the phone, have an in-person meeting, or chat virtually!