Air Travel Safe from COVID-19 says Independent Study
A new, independent study is showing that air travel is safe as it relates to potentially contracting COVID-19. This according to a study conducted by U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).
According to the study only 0.003% of particles from a masked mannequin, equipped with an integrated aerosol generator to simulate breathing and coughing, actually made their way into another seat’s breathing zone. This is due in part to the advanced HEPA filtration used by major airlines like United Airlines.
The study indicates that, even when the plane is full, risk is limited. Continuing the use of masks helps to minimize exposure when someone coughs. According to a statement from United, “Due to the unique qualities of the air filtration system, this makes the cabin of a plane one of the safest indoor environments in the world!”
“This most comprehensive study of its kind, revealed that fast onboard air recirculation, downward designed air ventilation and efficient HEPA filters make the chances of COVID-exposure almost non-existent on our flights, regardless of where you are seated.”
How were the tests performed?
The more than 300 tests were performed over a six-month period. They are a collection of 38 flight hours and another 45 hours on the ground. During the tests, particles were released across the entire cabin by section which contained a total of 42 sensors spread across the seats.
Additional sensors were placed in high traffic areas like the airplane galleys and jetbridge used for boarding. The sensors were used to represent passengers seated near the mannequin aerosol generator.
As a result of the advanced filtration and pressured airflow, approximately 99.99% of particles were filtered out of the cabin within six minutes. In contrast, a similar study showed that, in a house, it takes 90 minutes home’s filtration to accomplish the same task.
During an interview on Good Morning America, United Airlines Chief Communications Officer and SVP Josh Earnest said, “If you are inclined to travel or are thinking about air travel, there is reason today based on this independent study, that you can feel confident and travel safely on an airplane.”
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