Myths about the spread of viruses inside airplanes: what do passengers need to know?

Air filters as in the medical field.

Most modern aircraft are equipped with air filtration systems with high-efficiency particulate air filters, which are called HEPA filters, according to a press release from Lithuanian airports. This air filtration and circulation system has properties similar to air filtration equipment in sterile operating rooms or other locations that require exceptionally clean air.

HEPA filters are very effective as they can retain up to 99.97 percent. pollutants in the air and various microorganisms and viruses. The mixture of fresh and recirculated air in the airplane consists of 50%. filtered air and 50 percent. Continuously supplied from the field.

In airplanes, the air is constantly “updated” and does not circulate in the same way, this means that the ventilation systems of the airplanes periodically replace the air in the cabin with the outside air. Fresh air is blown to passengers from above and then stands up. The air inside the cabin is said to change completely about 20-30 times per hour. High-efficiency air filters maintain a higher humidity level in the cabin and provide lower levels of particulate, which means that the air supplied to the aircraft, which is inhaled by passengers in the cabin, is almost completely sterile.

Passengers must meet hygiene requirements.

According to international aviation organizations, although an effective aircraft air filtration system minimizes the risk of contracting various diseases, passengers must take the necessary measures to guarantee the health safety of air passengers.

Those planning to fly are advised to follow the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO): wash your hands well with soap and disinfect them regularly, use personal hygiene when coughing or sneezing, and cover your mouth properly with an elbow or a cloth. Protective masks and, if necessary, protective gloves should be worn throughout the trip.

Safety while traveling is also ensured by the fact that passengers do not move around much in the aircraft cabin, and when they sit in their place, they are protected from contact by the seat backs facing each other. It should be remembered that all passengers on the plane sit one behind the other, which also reduces the probability of any contact.

In addition, it is recalled that flying airlines provide permanently disinfected cabin surfaces and can provide the necessary safety measures.

Tips for disinfecting your airplane seat:

• Airlines operating flights to regions affected by the coronavirus clean aircraft cabs after flights, reducing the risk of infection. However, if you want to be absolutely sure of cleaning, you can do it yourself.
• We recommend that you carry disinfectant wipes on the plane. Use a sanitizing wipe to clean any non-porous surfaces that need to be touched by hand, such as handrails and a folding table.
• Don’t forget the walls and curtains if you sit by the window; there may also be pathogenic microorganisms.
• Be sure to read the instructions on the napkin package, as in some cases the clean surface must be left wet for a few minutes for the product to work.
• It may be more difficult to disinfect the surfaces covered with the material because you will not wipe them clean. If you’re concerned, you can carry a washable fabric chair cover on the flight.
• The most effective way is to wash your hands as often as possible with soap and water or disinfect with alcohol gel.