ATA Comments On Swine Influenza

The Air Transport Association of America, (ATA) the industry trade group for U.S. airlines, said it remains in close contact with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on actions the U.S. government is taking to combat the spread of the swine influenza to and within the U.S.

“At this time, CDC has asked airlines to continue to implement standard protocols for identifying, reporting and managing cases of potential communicable disease for passengers arriving in the U.S. or traveling between U.S. airports. No additional screening by CDC has been proposed or required at this time,” the ATA said.

“CDC has issued a "Travel Health Precaution," but currently has not recommended that people avoid travel to Mexico. The Travel Health Precaution includes information about the outbreak and recommendations to reduce the risk of infection and help travelers remain in good health.” The ATA said.

Some airlines have implemented flexible travel policies, the ATA said, urging travelers to contact the carriers for specific airline policies or to check with the CDC Swine Flu Web Page and the Travel Health Precaution.