To anyone thinking of travelling from UK to Spain

[domigee]

My experience today. Not about the Camino (sadly)
but just a feed-back on flying from the UK to Spain.

Gatwick airport eerily empty - well, compared to usual. Fine.

Flying EasyJet who stipulated everyone had to wear a mask on board. Ok. Felt safe enough.

Trouble is, probably half or near half the passengers were wearing it under the nose to start with

Then even worse, took them off completely whilst drinking copious amounts of wine and being bery loud Plus ça change....

Having been very careful during this pandemic, I felt like I was playing Russian roulette during that flight! Not my idea of fun !

It’s lovely to be back here in Spain - and checking on my second home after nearly seven months’ absence! - but I hope we don’t live (or die ) to regret it!

Once in Alicante airport, temperature checks, health forms duly filled in were scanned, everyone wearing masks ... We took taxi rather than the usual bus, I had enough excitement for one day.

Town very empty, lots (LOTS) of shops/small businesses closed for good and I only saw what was close to my street

Once home, had email from the Spanish government, wishing us ‘buenvenida’ and telling us what to do and which number to phone should we develop Covid symptoms....

So here you have it, take your chance I am not sure it is worth the risk God help us with the flight back

 

[natefaith]

Welcome back to Spain @domigee ! Hope your vivienda was just fine after your absence. That's sad about the businesses being closed for good....it's been a rough year. Take care.

 

[domigee]

Welcome back to Spain @domigee ! Hope your vivienda was just fine after your absence. That's sad about the businesses being closed for good....it's been a rough year. Take care.

Thank you @natefaith Flat absolutely fine, phew, had never left it for so long. So happy to be back!
Tomorrow will be hard I think, my friends here had already warned me.
Take care too

 

[cathietherese]

My experience today. Not about the Camino (sadly)
but just a feed-back on flying from the UK to Spain.

Gatwick airport eerily empty - well, compared to usual. Fine.

Flying EasyJet who stipulated everyone had to wear a mask on board. Ok. Felt safe enough.

Sorry to hear you had such an unnerving experience @domigee . I would have been feeling very unsettled in that situation too. It's very brave of you to post such an honest account so other people know what they might be 'in for' taking a flight at this time.
Take care and Kia Kaha (stay strong) from New Zealand.

 

[trecile]

In the US airlines are banning passengers who refuse to wear masks from future flights.

Airlines follow through on threat to ban passengers who don't wear masks

Airlines are making good on their threat to ban passengers from future flights for refusing to wear masks.

www.cnn.com

 

[domigee]

In the US airlines are banning passengers who refuse to wear masks from future flights.

Airlines follow through on threat to ban passengers who don't wear masks

Airlines are making good on their threat to ban passengers from future flights for refusing to wear masks.

www.cnn.com

Passengers had masks on but...most, the wrong way? Only covering mouth. And I hate to say but crew were as bad, taking off masks as well for most of the journey... I was on row 1 so could see it all unfolding. It was as if the dreaded virus were NOT on this plane Beggars belief!
Anyone else can share experience?

 

[FSP]

In our area of the country we refer to them as quite accurately as COVID Rockets.

 

[domigee]

Sorry to hear you had such an unnerving experience @domigee . I would have been feeling very unsettled in that situation too. It's very brave of you to post such an honest account so other people know what they might be 'in for' taking a flight at this time.
Take care and Kia Kaha (stay strong) from New Zealand.

And from me to New Zealand, , kia Kaha xx (i lived in Wellington many moons ago ❤)

 

[Former member 60103]

This is depressing. This is only a couple of day's after report's that on a Tui flight from Zante back to UK people were not wearing masks and cabin crew allegedly doing nothing. 16 people later tested positive and the rest of the passengers and crew quarantined - trouble is it took UK authorities 5 days to get themselves in gear. Someone needs to get a grip and enforce the rules.
Don.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Yes, and from who(and how many) did the 16 passengers contract the virus from, and in those 5 days before action how many did the 16 pass it on to before their quarantine. It seems like a losing battle to figure it all out.

 

[Bristle Boy]

This is depressing. This is only a couple of day's after report's that on a Tui flight from Zante back to UK people were not wearing masks and cabin crew allegedly doing nothing. 16 people later tested positive and the rest of the passengers and crew quarantined - trouble is it took UK authorities 5 days to get themselves in gear. Someone needs to get a grip and enforce the rules.
Don.

It probably took TUI five days to get themselves into gear. This story is nothing new and unexpected. Yesterday I was reading on article of some sort of internet celebrity who was glorifying in the fact that he had managed to remain mask free on a flight by eating a tube of pringles....very slowly.

 

[Jomas]

Anyone else can share experience?

Hi, I don't know if you specifically asked for flights between UK and Spain ... so I have the experience of a couple of flights here in my country (Italy) in August. One with the national company and one with a Spanish company (what a coincidence?)
Both airports (departure and arrival) are "armored": you can enter only if you can prove that you have the ticket booked and when you land, you only have one thing to do and that is to leave the airport structure (bar-shop - newsagent ... all closed ).
Body temperature measurement through a special scanner, complete with an operator at the gate who immediately checks the data on a tablet.
You enter the aircraft in stages, following the assigned seat number (first from 1 to 15, then from 16 to 30 and so on). When it's time to get off you have to wait until the line before you is completely emptied. On board, the rule of wearing the mask was discreetly observed, even by the on-board operators.
But honestly I just looked around me.
Strong ventilation in place for most of the flight.
During the booking phase, they pointed out to me that the seat assignment procedure is regulated differently than usual: traveling alone, it makes no difference to book my seat immediately and I leave it to the causality. But then the system immediately assigned me a place where there is an additional empty space. Basically on the row of three seats, I was towards the corridor, in the middle it was empty, while the other lone passenger was towards the window. I can't say it's a procedure for every airline and I don't think it's always feasible.
All in all it was quite reassuring.

So here you have it, take your chance I am not sure it is worth the risk

I think your sensible invitation is valid for any travel, not just for air flights or for Spain.
But to live I have to work.
No one has ever given me another valid and reassuring option

God help us with the flight back

Is there a swab check on your return to the UK?

 

[Bristle Boy]

Hi, I don't know if you specifically asked for flights between UK and Spain ... so I have the experience of a couple of flights here in my country (Italy) in August. One with the national company and one with a Spanish company (what a coincidence?)
Both airports (departure and arrival) are "armored": you can enter only if you can prove that you have the ticket booked and when you land, you only have one thing to do and that is to leave the airport structure (bar-shop - newsagent ... all closed ).
Body temperature measurement through a special scanner, complete with an operator at the gate who immediately checks the data on a tablet.
You enter the aircraft in stages, following the assigned seat number (first from 1 to 15, then from 16 to 30 and so on). When it's time to get off you have to wait until the line before you is completely emptied. On board, the rule of wearing the mask was discreetly observed, even by the on-board operators.
But honestly I just looked around me.
Strong ventilation in place for most of the flight.
During the booking phase, they pointed out to me that the seat assignment procedure is regulated differently than usual: traveling alone, it makes no difference to book my seat immediately and I leave it to the causality. But then the system immediately assigned me a place where there is an additional empty space. Basically on the row of three seats, I was towards the corridor, in the middle it was empty, while the other lone passenger was towards the window. I can't say it's a procedure for every airline and I don't think it's always feasible.
All in all it was quite reassuring.


I think your sensible invitation is valid for any travel, not just for air flights or for Spain.
But to live I have to work.
No one has ever given me another valid and reassuring option



Is there a swab check on your return to the UK?

With regard to a swab test on the return to the UK....at airports there is no swab on your return...

 

[Robo]

I'll stay right here at home thanks.......
Been quite happy for 6 months so far with only 4 trips out to doctor,pharmacy, post office.
Overly cautious? Who me?

Oh, we went for drive on Sunday and took a picnic to eat in the car.
What fun. Every man / woman and their dog was on the road in Sydney and we sat in traffic for 3 hours.
Going out.............nah.............tried that

We'll get our fresh air in the back garden for now.......

 

[Sue127]

This is depressing. This is only a couple of day's after report's that on a Tui flight from Zante back to UK people were not wearing masks and cabin crew allegedly doing nothing. 16 people later tested positive and the rest of the passengers and crew quarantined - trouble is it took UK authorities 5 days to get themselves in gear. Someone needs to get a grip and enforce the rules.
Don.

Certainly need better control and better reaction times to a situation if the aim is to stop the spread,

 

[GailGwyn]

My experience today. Not about the Camino (sadly)
but just a feed-back on flying from the UK to Spain.

Gatwick airport eerily empty - well, compared to usual. Fine.

Flying EasyJet who stipulated everyone had to wear a mask on board. Ok. Felt safe enough.

Trouble is, probably half or near half the passengers were wearing it under the nose to start with

Then even worse, took them off completely whilst drinking copious amounts of wine and being bery loud Plus ça change....

Having been very careful during this pandemic, I felt like I was playing Russian roulette during that flight! Not my idea of fun !

It’s lovely to be back here in Spain - and checking on my second home after nearly seven months’ absence! - but I hope we don’t live (or die ) to regret it!

Once in Alicante airport, temperature checks, health forms duly filled in were scanned, everyone wearing masks ... We took taxi rather than the usual bus, I had enough excitement for one day.

Town very empty, lots (LOTS) of shops/small businesses closed for good and I only saw what was close to my street

Once home, had email from the Spanish government, wishing us ‘buenvenida’ and telling us what to do and which number to phone should we develop Covid symptoms....

So here you have it, take your chance I am not sure it is worth the risk God help us with the flight back

Flew Ryanair from Manchester this morning. Flight was practically empty. Only saw 1 person wearing a 'chin strap'

Now waiting in Madrid airport for connecting flight to A Coruña. A few people not correctly wearing masks, but most are. Airport is very quiet.

Had the same email from Spanish Government.

 

[Bristle Boy]

My experience today. Not about the Camino (sadly)
but just a feed-back on flying from the UK to Spain.

Gatwick airport eerily empty - well, compared to usual. Fine.

Flying EasyJet who stipulated everyone had to wear a mask on board. Ok. Felt safe enough.

Trouble is, probably half or near half the passengers were wearing it under the nose to start with

Then even worse, took them off completely whilst drinking copious amounts of wine and being bery loud Plus ça change....

Having been very careful during this pandemic, I felt like I was playing Russian roulette during that flight! Not my idea of fun !

It’s lovely to be back here in Spain - and checking on my second home after nearly seven months’ absence! - but I hope we don’t live (or die ) to regret it!

Once in Alicante airport, temperature checks, health forms duly filled in were scanned, everyone wearing masks ... We took taxi rather than the usual bus, I had enough excitement for one day.

Town very empty, lots (LOTS) of shops/small businesses closed for good and I only saw what was close to my street

Once home, had email from the Spanish government, wishing us ‘buenvenida’ and telling us what to do and which number to phone should we develop Covid symptoms....

So here you have it, take your chance I am not sure it is worth the risk God help us with the flight back

Just to really address your question...personally no!
This I decided back in January and nothing has changed my mind.

 

[cathietherese]

And from me to New Zealand, , kia Kaha xx (i lived in Wellington many moons ago ❤)

So cool! Thank you @domigee. Wellington is such a lovely city, especially since the waterfront became such a welcoming space for people to enjoy together. I hope you had the best time there and maybe 'when the world comes back' you might get to enjoy it all over again?

 

[domigee]

Hi, I don't know if you specifically asked for flights between UK and Spain ... so I have the experience of a couple of flights here in my country (Italy) in August. One with the national company and one with a Spanish company (what a coincidence?)
Both airports (departure and arrival) are "armored": you can enter only if you can prove that you have the ticket booked and when you land, you only have one thing to do and that is to leave the airport structure (bar-shop - newsagent ... all closed ).
Body temperature measurement through a special scanner, complete with an operator at the gate who immediately checks the data on a tablet.
You enter the aircraft in stages, following the assigned seat number (first from 1 to 15, then from 16 to 30 and so on). When it's time to get off you have to wait until the line before you is completely emptied. On board, the rule of wearing the mask was discreetly observed, even by the on-board operators.
But honestly I just looked around me.
Strong ventilation in place for most of the flight.
During the booking phase, they pointed out to me that the seat assignment procedure is regulated differently than usual: traveling alone, it makes no difference to book my seat immediately and I leave it to the causality. But then the system immediately assigned me a place where there is an additional empty space. Basically on the row of three seats, I was towards the corridor, in the middle it was empty, while the other lone passenger was towards the window. I can't say it's a procedure for every airline and I don't think it's always feasible.
All in all it was quite reassuring.


I think your sensible invitation is valid for any travel, not just for air flights or for Spain.
But to live I have to work.
No one has ever given me another valid and reassuring option



Is there a swab check on your return to the UK?
[/
Obviously we had totally different experiences. I am glad it isn’t the same for everybody. I just wanted to know.
There were no temperature checks in Gatwick. There were when arriving in Alicante.
As for our return back, I have no idea. I am just dreading it but hey!f

 

[domigee]

So cool! Thank you @domigee. Wellington is such a lovely city, especially since the waterfront became such a welcoming space for people to enjoy together. I hope you had the best time there and maybe 'when the world comes back' you might get to enjoy it all over again?

I’d love to go back there with my husband as he doesn’t know it Wonderful country.
It was a lovely time there because of the people but... it was a bit too windy for me And the earthquakes But in spite of everything, my memories are won-der-ful

 

[cathietherese]

I’d love to go back there with my husband as he doesn’t know it Wonderful country.
It was a lovely time there because of the people but... it was a bit too windy for me And the earthquakes But in spite of everything, my memories are won-der-ful

Yes, windy Welly. I live in the Southern Lakes in Wanaka now but I grew up with Wellington as my 'big town', especially compared to the lovely little town I was born in called Taihape. When you bring hubby back remember where Tim and I are, we always love meeting other pilgrims.xo

 

[VNwalking]

Taihape

Gumboots on the camino, @cathietherese ?

(Myself, I get homesick for Taupo and the CNI...)

@domigee , it sounds 'interesting.' And not in a good way. May you be safe there, and when the time comes to go back to the UK.

Kia kaha to us all.

 

[cathietherese]

Gumboots on the camino, @cathietherese ?

(Myself, I get homesick for Taupo and the CNI...)

@domigee , it sounds 'interesting.' And not in a good way. May you be safe there, and when the time comes to go back to the UK.

Kia kaha to us all.

Haha! @VNwalking that's the one. I needed gumboots last year walking out of Le Puy for a moment there, until it became really hot. In fact Tim and I joked about whether we had landed out the back of Taihape when we landed at Le Puy. It must be the volcanic plateau connection.
Where are you now? Much aroha to all too.

 

[trevorcc]

My experience today. Not about the Camino (sadly)
but just a feed-back on flying from the UK to Spain.

Gatwick airport eerily empty - well, compared to usual. Fine.

Flying EasyJet who stipulated everyone had to wear a mask on board. Ok. Felt safe enough.

Trouble is, probably half or near half the passengers were wearing it under the nose to start with

Then even worse, took them off completely whilst drinking copious amounts of wine and being bery loud Plus ça change....

Having been very careful during this pandemic, I felt like I was playing Russian roulette during that flight! Not my idea of fun !

It’s lovely to be back here in Spain - and checking on my second home after nearly seven months’ absence! - but I hope we don’t live (or die ) to regret it!

Once in Alicante airport, temperature checks, health forms duly filled in were scanned, everyone wearing masks ... We took taxi rather than the usual bus, I had enough excitement for one day.

Town very empty, lots (LOTS) of shops/small businesses closed for good and I only saw what was close to my street

Once home, had email from the Spanish government, wishing us ‘buenvenida’ and telling us what to do and which number to phone should we develop Covid symptoms....

So here you have it, take your chance I am not sure it is worth the risk God help us with the flight back

Keep safe and enjoy.

 

[Bristle Boy]

Has anyone else noticed that when there has been an infringement or absence of good practice on a flight that the airlines response has always included the words "the safety of our passengers is always our major concern" or something along those lines?

 

[JohnLloyd]

How I got into Iceland for a ten-day road trip in mid-August:-

• Filled out an online pre-registration form
• Downloaded a fully functioning tracking app
• Got tested at the border on arrival
• Identified my overnight location in case of need for quarantine
• Received results overnight
• Chose a location for a follow-up test five days later
• Received follow-up results overnight

How I got back into the UK after that:-

• Filled out an online Locator form before departure from Iceland
• Walked out of Heathrow unchallenged and unchecked

Nobody checked my details, no confirmation of the accuracy of the information I’d recorded on the form, not even a temperature check.

The difference between the two approaches may help to explain why Iceland has achieved better Covid-19
outcomes than the UK.

 

[Bristle Boy]

How I got into Iceland for a ten-day road trip in mid-August:-

• Filled out an online pre-registration form
• Downloaded a fully functioning tracking app
• Got tested at the border on arrival
• Identified my overnight location in case of need for quarantine
• Received results overnight
• Chose a location for a follow-up test five days later
• Received follow-up results overnight

How I got back into the UK after that:-

• Filled out an online Locator form before departure from Iceland
• Walked out of Heathrow unchallenged and unchecked

Nobody checked my details, no confirmation of the accuracy of the information I’d recorded on the form, not even a temperature check.

The difference between the two approaches may help to explain why Iceland has achieved better Covid-19
outcomes than the UK.

Unfortunately this situation existed back in February prior to the first wave. I, along with many others, were calling for this to be changed and that there should be testing at airports. The attitude of the airports was very benign at the time and treated with an attitude of "we are following Government guidelines". Other countries were adopting a different policy of testing at the point of entry.
I think that this is possibly the weakest point in the fight against covid and one I addressed on a different platform directly with the airports. I got no reply..the only response was for them to close down the whole twitter feed.
The change in attitude by this sector has been driven by the experience on the effect on a balance sheet and not about the health implications. The amount of hubris in this sector has been staggering.

 

[domigee]

Has anyone else noticed that when there has been an infringement or absence of good practice on a flight that the airlines response has always included the words "the safety of our passengers is always our major concern" or something along those lines?

i may be wrong (can’t remember where I read it) but wearing a mask in not a ‘law’ in the UK. Therefore all those people weren’t actually breaking the law? please feel free to disagree, I am not sure of anything anymore
Here where I am in Spain, everyone is wearing a mask (outside as well as in shops) and yet the figures for Covid are appalling . Go figure

 

[Bristle Boy]

i may be wrong (can’t remember where I read it) but wearing a mask in not a ‘law’ in the UK. Therefore all those people weren’t actually breaking the law? please feel free to disagree, I am not sure of anything anymore
Here where I am in Spain, everyone is wearing a mask (outside as well as in shops) and yet the figures for Covid are appalling . Go figure

Hi Dom,
The wearing of masks is mandatory (the only exception being medical) in all shops and public places (including airports).
Many are wearing them when out but this has not been made mandatory yet.
The distancing, ignored by the few, is, of course practiced.

 

[trecile]

Here where I am in Spain, everyone is wearing a mask (outside as well as in shops) and yet the figures for Covid are appalling . Go figure

I would guess that private social events and late night bars/clubs would be to blame.

 

[Bristle Boy]

I would guess that private social events and late night bars/clubs would be to blame.

It is soooooo complicated. At the moment the figures are indicating that the UK incidence remains low at the moment. I dont expect this to remain the case....not as long as holidaymakers are not rushing back to escape covid ....but to escape quarantine.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Covid and its tracking will always remain complicated as "the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing"...and these forum covid related threads will unfortunately be with us for a very long time.

 

[domigee]

I would guess that private social events and late night bars/clubs would be to blame.

You may be right. My kids aren’t here with us so I wouldn’t know about that.... I must add that they have been very good and not gone out at all for months (both in England and Canada, oh and I have one locked down in Colombia too).

 

[domigee]

Hi Dom,
The wearing of masks is mandatory (the only exception being medical) in all shops and public places (including airports).
Many are wearing them when out but this has not been made mandatory yet.
The distancing, ignored by the few, is, of course practiced.

i must say I am very confused. It seems when you’re drinking on airplanes you don’t need to wear a mask... obviously.
So what is the point of it all? As I said previously, the crew didn’t bother either...
Maybe if you drink, you’re immune

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I think anyone flying right now should be required to wear a mask properly and not remove it while on the aircraft. Isn't the recycled air a problem? The flight attendants should make sure it is enforced, just as they check to see seat belt rules are observed by all. In addition, my opinion is that no beverages or food should be served, nor food or beverages brought on board. Flights within the EU are not really all that long anyway, surely people should be able to go for several hours without eating and drinking. I know my opinion will be somewhat controversial to many, but so be it. If and when I will be able to fly from the US, I will count it a small price to pay if it ensures a safe, hopefully covid free flight.
I don't have all the answers, but what @domigee experienced and witnessed was appalling.
Hopefully a vaccine will be found sooner rather than later and this will become a moot point.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I'll stay right here at home thanks.......
Been quite happy for 6 months so far with only 4 trips out to doctor,pharmacy, post office.
Overly cautious? Who me?

Oh, we went for drive on Sunday and took a picnic to eat in the car.
What fun. Every man / woman and their dog was on the road in Sydney and we sat in traffic for 3 hours.
Going out.............nah.............tried that

We'll get our fresh air in the back garden for now.......

Had my daughter down last weekend having not met up with her for six months. Went up to collect her from London on Thursday and took her back on the Tuesday so 360 miles of to and fro on the M25 motorway all for a picnic in the car on top of the White Cliffs of Dover.

But it was all worthwhile.

We were sitting there and suddenly a Spitfire flew over. So, definitely worth it. I mean, a SPITFIRE!

 

[Bristle Boy]

I would have a lot more confidence in getting on an aeroplane anywhere at the moment if airlines would explain to me what part of the "hospital grade" air filtration system filters out microscopic covid particles but doesn't filter out microscopic peanut particulates for someone with a peanut allergy.

 

[domigee]

I think anyone flying right now should be required to wear a mask properly and not remove it while on the aircraft. Isn't the recycled air a problem? The flight attendants should make sure it is enforced, just as they check to see seat belt rules are observed by all. In addition, my opinion is that no beverages or food should be served, nor food or beverages brought on board. Flights within the EU are not really all that long anyway, surely people should be able to go for several hours without eating and drinking. I know my opinion will be somewhat controversial to many, but so be it. If and when I will be able to fly from the US, I will count it a small price to pay if it ensures a safe, hopefully covid free flight.
I don't have all the answers, but what @domigee experienced and witnessed was appalling.
Hopefully a vaccine will be found sooner rather than later and this will become a moot point.

I agree with you completely @Camino Chrissy. The Gatwick/Alicante flight in question is less than 2 hours long

 

[Bristle Boy]

I think that when faced with a forest fire the only people running towards it should be the professional firefighters...everyone else should be running away. A solution to that problem should not be starting your own little fires elsewhere.

 

[Kathor1]

My advice: While in Europe, don't fly on budget airlines to and from the usual summer holidays and party destinations. And wear a proper HEPA face mask if you are super allergic to peanuts, and more importantly, keep your hands clean and be aware of what you touch while on your seat or moving around.

 

[Kathor1]

Flights within the EU are not really all that long anyway, surely people should be able to go for several hours without eating and drinking.

Some more entertaining info about flying in Europe in Corona times: food and drinks, or none of it, in Lufthansa Economy class.

According to flight time:

• less than 50 minutes there is no beverage service
• longer than 50 minutes we will provide you with a bottle of water
• longer than 65 minutes we offer additional coffee & tea on cross-border flights
• longer than 120 minutes we offer you our usual beverage service
• longer than 150 minutes we will serve you an additional snack
• longer than 180 minutes we will serve you an additional vegetarian sandwich

What do you learn from this? If you are thirsty or hungry, don't fly far.

 

[Bristle Boy]

My advice: While in Europe, don't fly on budget airlines to and from the usual summer holidays and party destinations. And wear a proper HEPA face mask if you are super allergic to peanuts, and more importantly, keep your hands clean and be aware of what you touch while on your seat or moving around.

I'm allergic to covid...
The post wasnt really about peanuts but about the airlines response to concerns about air filtration systems on board. The concerns about mask wearing on aircraft isnt restricted to budget airlines either...the charters are just as bad.

 

[Kathor1]

the charters are just as bad.

@Bristle boy, is that relevant to this discussion? Aren't charter flights for package tours? Not something that Camino pilgrims usually use for getting to and from Spain, as far as I can tell.

Also, you are implying that HEPA filters in airplanes do not filter peanut dust or particles. There is no evidence for such a claim.

 

[Bristle Boy]

Is that relevant to this discussion? Aren't charter flights for package tours? Not something that Camino pilgrims usually use for getting to and from Spain, as far as I can tell.

I think it is very relevant to whether I have confidence in travelling to Spain from England. certainly by air....

 

[Kathor1]

Flights within the EU are not really all that long anyway, surely people should be able to go for several hours without eating and drinking.

More on this: Major European airlines have information on their website about specific Coronavirus measures taken by them. I usually fly Iberia/Iberia Express to Spain or within Spain but I have not done so since March. They say on their website: On short and medium-haul flights we've suspended the catering service and distribution of magazines to avoid contact. If I remember correctly, you have to purchase food and drinks on these Iberia flights, unlike Lufthansa for example, where it's still included in the ticket price. Remember that selling food and drinks is a major source of income for budget airlines.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Some more entertaining info about flying in Europe in Corona times: food and drinks, or none of it, in Lufthansa Economy class.

According to flight time:

• less than 50 minutes there is no beverage service
• longer than 50 minutes we will provide you with a bottle of water
• longer than 65 minutes we offer additional coffee & tea on cross-border flights
• longer than 120 minutes we offer you our usual beverage service
• longer than 150 minutes we will serve you an additional snack
• longer than 180 minutes we will serve you an additional vegetarian sandwich

What do you learn from this? If you are thirsty or hungry, don't fly far.

I love being entertained by humor, @Kathar1na, as some on this forum are aware...I enjoyed reading your response!

 

[Camino Chrissy]

We were sitting there and suddenly a Spitfire flew over. So, definitely worth it. I mean, a SPITFIRE!

It's a good thing the Spitfire flew overhead because I had to google the word and for a brief moment I thought you were referring to a "fiery outburst" by your daughter as one definition refered to girls.

 

[Jomas]

And wear a proper HEPA face mask

if you mean the same HEPA filter masks that I mean, you know they are a bit impractical and bulky. And of course the price is much higher (for those that are really certified).
On the other hand, the filters used in aircraft are also of "HEPA" standard, therefore a hospital standard.
60% of the air blown into the aircraft comes from outside.
The air exchange inside the aircraft takes place within 5 minutes.
I think that in my two flights that I have made, having found a greater strength / power of the ventilation system, has the aim of further decreasing the time for the air exchange of the aircraft and (therefore) less chance of contracting the virus.
And wisely speaking, I say "well it's an anti-covid measure, but in this way you make me have a flu!".
Despite wearing a jacket, I got off the plane which felt like I was an ice lolly

 

[Camino Chrissy]

The perfect non HEPA mask for both aircraft and indoor pub use.

 

[Kathor1]

if you mean the same HEPA filter masks that I mean, you know they are a bit impractical and bulky. And of course the price is much higher (for those that are really certified).

I put a "like" under your comment but I would have preferred an icon that symbolises a knowing and sympathetic smile ☺.

My earlier comment referred to people who are super allergic to peanut "dust" and to some rather dramatic reports in some news media about individual cases. I had googled for some information about this before I wrote my reply. These news articles date from before 2020.

And the thought occurred to me, and I wondered, why these super allergic people did not wear available and appropriate protection if they are so severely allergic that they are in danger of dying when another passenger five rows away from them opens a packet of peanuts. The topic/myth was introduced into this thread as "proof" that HEPA filters in airplanes are not safe, do not work as described, are genuine sieves for particles even much larger than viruses on their own or in viral aerosols. Occasionally, I feel that we must not let misleading information go unchallenged and should not resign ourselves to accept non-stop generalised warnings about travelling to Spain and travelling in Spain that are not based on facts.

 

[Bristle Boy]

And my comment wasn't really about peanut dust but what travels around aircraft without taking adequate precautions. The non wearing of masks in such an enclosed space. I made the analogy of this with regard to the current situation

 

[Camino Chrissy]

60% of the air blown into the aircraft comes from outside

I have flown often and estimate on approx. a third of my flights I have ended up with a horrible sore throat and sinus issues, but at home it's a very rare occurence. I can only conclude that the air circulated in the aircraft caused this. On Camino I more often than not walk for at least the first two weeks feeling rather miserable. I think I could possibly be affected by covid particles in the confined space of an aircraft and am not yet willing to risk it yet, even in my own country.

 

[Jomas]

The perfect non HEPA mask for both aircraft and indoor pub use.

but you know that as a response to another thread (breathing problems) I also wanted to propose this type of mask.
but then I realized that I was ignorant of respiratory diseases and that health is not a joke.

 

[Kathor1]

And wisely speaking, I say "well it's an anti-covid measure, but in this way you make me have a flu!" Despite wearing a jacket, I got off the plane which felt like I was an ice lolly

I am not a frequent flyer anymore but already before the arrival of the Covid-19 virus and when travelling in the summer time, I made sure that I had enough additional clothing with me on my plane seat to keep me warm. And, alas, it's quite draughty when you have this round knob above your seat on full blast. First thing I did was to turn it off. No longer a good option now, I guess?

 

[VNwalking]

Don't you just love this about the camino's intersecting pathways?

Indeed.
And she's right. This is a wonderful place, with some of the best people you can imagine. In that respect the same as NZ, but in most other ways, 180° different.

 

[Jomas]

My earlier comment referred to people who are super allergic to peanut "dust" and to some rather dramatic reports in some news media about individual cases. I had googled for some information about this before I wrote my reply. These news articles date from before 2020.
Occasionally, I feel that we must not let misleading information go unchallenged and should not resign ourselves to accept non-stop generalised warnings about travelling to Spain and travelling in Spain that are not based on facts.

you are absolutely right that it is good to publish information with reliable data. In fact, I appreciate those who do it, dedicating time to it, like you @ kathar1na.

 

[Jomas]

I am not a frequent flyer anymore but already before the arrival of the Covid-19 virus and when travelling in the summer time, I made sure that I had enough additional clothing with me on my plane seat to keep me warm. And, alas, it's quite draughty when you have this round knob above your seat on full blast. First thing I did was to turn it off.

well, I see that you are much more careful and thoughtful than me in securing some extra headgear if you travel by plane.
I always say it but then I never do.

No longer a good option now, I guess?

my experience says that those knobs are still optional and therefore can remain closed, if they bother.
But trust me, the power of the aircraft ventilation was so high that I didn't even look at those knobs.
(this is just my recent experience)

 

[VNwalking]

And, alas, it's quite draughty when you have this round knob above your seat on full blast. First thing I did was to turn it off. No longer a good option now, I guess?

Actually, from what I gather it's a good idea to have them going full blast because the air that comes out is coming directly from outside, having been warmed and filtered. I can't remember where I read this, but I will have a look and post if I find it.

 

[VNwalking]

The bottom line is to sit in a window seat, of course wear a mask, and have the ventilation going.

Here’s how coronavirus spreads on a plane—and the safest place to sit

Global travel opens new roads for outbreaks, like coronavirus and the flu—but which is more dangerous, and how can you stay safe?

www.nationalgeographic.com

https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/scientists-think-they-know-ways-to-combat-viruses-on-airplanes-theyre-too-late-for-this-pandemic/2020/04/20/83279318-76ab-11ea-87da-77a8136c1a6d_story.html

 

[Bristle Boy]

How Clean Is the Air on Planes?

What to know about the air we breathe at 30,000 feet.

www.cntraveler.com

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Wow, @VNalking, this link you provided says it all in my opinion and validates why I have often gotten respirtory ailments when flying. (I couldn't see the other one as it required giving my email to view it.)

https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/scientists-think-they-know-ways-to-combat-viruses-on-airplanes-theyre-too-late-for-this-pandemic/2020/04/20/83279318-76ab-11ea-87da-77a8136c1a6d_story.html

 

[Camino Chrissy]

How Clean Is the Air on Planes?

What to know about the air we breathe at 30,000 feet.

www.cntraveler.com

Another great link...food for thought before making a decision to fly.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I remember reading somewhere that flying was healthier when people were allowed to smoke because the air was filtered and recycled more often. Mind you the safest place to sit in a jetliner is at the back (if it crashes) and that's where they sat smokers!

 

[Bristle Boy]

I remember reading somewhere that flying was healthier when people were allowed to smoke because the air was filtered and recycled more often. Mind you the safest place to sit in a jetliner is at the back (if it crashes) and that's where they sat smokers!

Exactly...it recognises that something needs to be filtered in the first place

 

[domigee]

I have flown often and estimate on approx. a third of my flights I have ended up with a horrible sore throat and sinus issues, but at home it's a very rare occurence.

I used to have a cold/sinus trouble after every flight - until a pharmacist friend of mine recommended a spray: Vicks first defense or in the UK the Boots equivalent. It works
Unfortunately not against Covid though (I don’t think...)

 

[Jomas]

I remember reading somewhere that flying was healthier when people were allowed to smoke because the air was filtered and recycled more often. Mind you the safest place to sit in a jetliner is at the back (if it crashes) and that's where they sat smokers!

Hard to believe this is the case with the knowledge we have today

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I used to have a cold/sinus trouble after every flight - until a pharmacist friend of mine recommended a spray: Vicks first defense or in the UK the Boots equivalent. It works
Unfortunately not against Covid though (I don’t think...)

A great tip since you found it works, Domigee. Hopefully I'll be able to try it "post covid" one day.

 

[Corned Beef]

One of the great benefits of this site is the ability to share information. I’ve just completed London to Bari (VFnS) and can confirm @domigee ’s experience. Painless so far. Almost everyone is signed up to masks - even here in Italy.

As my background is (nuclear) engineering, safety is always top of the list. But so is making things work.

Start small and work up

 

[Albertagirl]

After one of my pilgrimages, I think it was the second, I got quite ill with a respiratory virus shortly after I got home, I had what amounted to a really bad cold for a couple of months. I concluded that it was caused by my being infected, either shortly before I left Spain or on the plane, with a virus which I had not met before. When younger, I got frequient colds, but eventually I just never got a cold any more, and concluded that I had already developed a resistance to everything going around. But in a new environment other viruses are lurking.

 

[Massey]

I have to admit that in a previous life l was involved in steering metal tubes through the sky . Before I was allowed to do this I was tested on my technical knowledge of how it all worked.From what I can remember they told us the idea is that a mass of conditioned air enters the cabin continuously and it then exits through outflow valves, usually two. I believe it’s still the same. Jomas is right smokers did sit at the back. The nicotine from the smoke caused problems with the operation of the outflow valves and indeed stains could be seen on the outside of the aircraft. Unfortunately not all of the smokers sat at the back one use to sit next to me at the front and he smoked a pipe.The last I heard he is still alive and lives in France; as for me I can still do CF. The big difference was we did not fly as high as they do now and for so long.

 

[trecile]

I used to have a cold/sinus trouble after every flight - until a pharmacist friend of mine recommended a spray: Vicks first defense or in the UK the Boots equivalent. It works
Unfortunately not against Covid though (I don’t think...)

I ordered some from Amazon a couple of years ago. I brought it with me to the Camino where I didn't need it, but I spent a few days in London after, and started getting a cold. It stopped it in its tracks, so I went to Boots and bought a few bottles to take home.

 

[domigee]

After one of my pilgrimages, I think it was the second, I got quite ill with a respiratory virus shortly after I got home, I had what amounted to a really bad cold for a couple of months. I concluded that it was caused by my being infected, either shortly before I left Spain or on the plane, with a virus which I had not met before. When younger, I got frequient colds, but eventually I just never got a cold any more, and concluded that I had already developed a resistance to everything going around. But in a new environment other viruses are lurking.

There is no doubt (in my mind anyway and from my experience) ) that we get more viruses if in an ‘alien’ environment. Our bodies are defenseless to start with.

 

[domigee]

Well, flew back to England today. I wasn’t looking forward to it, to tell truth, after my last experience....
How wrong could I be! And that is why I am sharing this with you: everything absolutely spot on this time, all wearing masks (properly) and none of this constantly moving around, drinking etc. The plane was probably about half empty, which helped of course. The staff were very strict from the beginning, constantly reminding us masks had to be worn at all times, covering both nose and mouth etc. And they also themselves wore masks throughout the journey.
Had it been like this two weeks ago, my original message would have been quite different!
I found the conditions in Spain quite eerie - so few people around. So many shops/restaurants closed - for good.
Masks have to be worn at all times, inside and outside, except when swimming in the sea (I was in a town, not the Camino). It was pretty hot (in the 30s) so it made walking any length of time quite unpleasant.
And now, the quarentine starts! Not that it’ll make much difference to what life has been like these last months
So apologies to all if my outward hellish flight was just a one-off!

 

[Bristle Boy]

Well, flew back to England today. I wasn’t looking forward to it, to tell truth, after my last experience....
How wrong could I be! And that is why I am sharing this with you: everything absolutely spot on this time, all wearing masks (properly) and none of this constantly moving around, drinking etc. The plane was probably about half empty, which helped of course. The staff were very strict from the beginning, constantly reminding us masks had to be worn at all times, covering both nose and mouth etc. And they also themselves wore masks throughout the journey.
Had it been like this two weeks ago, my original message would have been quite different!
I found the conditions in Spain quite eerie - so few people around. So many shops/restaurants closed - for good.
Masks have to be worn at all times, inside and outside, except when swimming in the sea (I was in a town, not the Camino). It was pretty hot (in the 30s) so it made walking any length of time quite unpleasant.
And now, the quarentine starts! Not that it’ll make much difference to what life has been like these last months
So apologies to all if my outward hellish flight was just a one-off!

That was so lovely to hear. Glad all went well.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Well, flew back to England today. I wasn’t looking forward to it, to tell truth, after my last experience....
How wrong could I be! And that is why I am sharing this with you: everything absolutely spot on this time, all wearing masks (properly) and none of this constantly moving around, drinking etc. The plane was probably about half empty, which helped of course. The staff were very strict from the beginning, constantly reminding us masks had to be worn at all times, covering both nose and mouth etc. And they also themselves wore masks throughout the journey.
Had it been like this two weeks ago, my original message would have been quite different!
I found the conditions in Spain quite eerie - so few people around. So many shops/restaurants closed - for good.
Masks have to be worn at all times, inside and outside, except when swimming in the sea (I was in a town, not the Camino). It was pretty hot (in the 30s) so it made walking any length of time quite unpleasant.
And now, the quarentine starts! Not that it’ll make much difference to what life has been like these last months
So apologies to all if my outward hellish flight was just a one-off!

It's so good to hear of such a positive experience from your first hand report in going back home, Domigee!

 

[Bristle Boy]

Just a little local news article and why I wouldn't want to travel at the moment.

Packed Edinburgh easyJet flight a 'joke' as passengers unmask for meals

'Completely negating the point of passengers wearing masks because they took them off'

www.edinburghlive.co.uk

 

[domigee]

Just to say, Quarantine over! Yeah!
and you know what? It made NO difference to my usual life
Oh, I did venture to the shops yesterday but only lasted 5 min as it is raining heavily here. Try that whilst wearing a mask
Hope you are all keeping ok.