Today, the Administration released its Runway to Recovery: The United States Framework for Airlines and Airports to Mitigate the Public Health Risks of Coronavirus guidelines to support the health and safety of passengers, aviation employees, and the aviation industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stakeholders across the aviation sector joined together to commend this important step on the path to recovery.

The guidelines are a critical step toward forming a framework that the federal government can use to ensure mutual recognition and reciprocity with other governments as negotiations take place to lift international travel bans. U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao’s strong role in all of these efforts is demonstrated by the fact that the U.S. principles are consistent with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Civil Aviation Recovery Task Force (CART) report. U.S. government officials have displayed leadership to help America’s 2.4 million daily passengers confidently return to the skies. Many of the measures in the guidance have already been implemented by airlines and airports.

With over 10 million hard-working American employees and $1.5 trillion in economic activity in 2019, the aviation industry is at the heart of our nation’s – and our world’s – economy, and has continuously moved people and critical resources around the world throughout the pandemic. A strong and stable aviation industry will be critical to the ongoing global response to and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The guidance released today is an important step in protecting the health and wellbeing of the flying public, while supporting the aviation industry and our nation’s economic recovery. Moving forward there must be a strong public-private partnership to ensure that all procedures and safeguards are in place for a healthy aviation system and strong economic recovery. The aviation industry stands united and ready to work with our government partners in ensuring passenger and crew safety and restoring air travel in the United States.

Aviation Stakeholders:

Aerospace Industries Association
Airlines for America
Airports Council International – North America
American Association of Airport Executives
American Society of Travel Advisors
Cargo Airline Alliance
General Aviation Manufacturers Association
International Air Transport Association
National Air Carrier Association
Regional Airline Association
RTCA
Travel Technology Association
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
U.S. Travel Association