Airlines May Deny Boarding for Symptoms of Swine Flu

Air travellers should feel some comfort in the knowledge that airlines are warning they may have to deny boarding to passengers displaying symptoms of swine flu or appearing unwell.  It is common sense, so if you have plans to travel and feel unwell it would be wise to obtain advice from your doctor and consider postponing travel.  With the peak of the summer travel period upon us, being turned away at check-in would obviously be hugely upsetting and disappointing for travellers heading off on their summer holidays.

Two airlines, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, have already implemented procedures to weed out suspected swine flu cases, unless the passenger has a doctor’s certificate explaining the condition and giving the go-ahead to fly. 

British Airways have apparently already found it necessary to turn back a few cases where passengers displayed symptoms of the virus and advised them not to travel until they are better, or to obtain a doctor’s certificate.  Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, fever, or appearing generally unwell.  Cabin crew and check-in personnel have been instructed on how to proceed if they suspect a passengers has symptoms.

Virgin Atlantic also has a medical team on hand to call upon for advice if they suspect a passenger is unwell.  The passenger will be asked to provide a ‘fit to fly’ certificate from their doctor or hospital, and if all is well they will be put on the next available flight at no additional cost.

At the time of writing, Britain is believed to have the highest number of Swine Flu cases in Europe and the third highest number of cases in the world – after the U.S. and Mexico, so the precautions are obviously very necessary for the benefit of all.  If required to cancel a trip, travellers should also contact their travel insurance company for advice.