United States Government Releases Runway To Recovery Guidance

The U.S. Departments of Transportation, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services jointly issued its Runway to Recovery: The United States Framework for Airlines and Airports to Mitigate the Public Health Risks of Coronavirus guidelines to support the health and safety of passengers, aviation employees, and the aviation industry.

The guidelines are a critical step toward forming a framework that the federal government can use to ensure mutual recognition and reciprocity with other governments as negotiations take place to lift international travel bans. U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao’s role in all of these efforts is demonstrated by the fact that the U.S. principles are consistent with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Civil Aviation Recovery Task Force (CART) report. U.S. government officials have displayed leadership to help America’s 2.4 million daily passengers return to the skies. Many of the measures in the guidance have already been implemented by airlines and airports.

The guidance is an important step in protecting the health and wellbeing of the flying public, while supporting the aviation industry and economic recovery. Moving forward there must be a strong public-private partnership to ensure that all procedures and safeguards are in place for a healthy aviation system and strong economic recovery. The aviation industry stands united and ready to work with its government partners in ensuring passenger and crew safety and restoring air travel in the United States.

Aviation groups that commend the guidance include:

Aerospace Industries Association
Airlines for America
Airports Council International – North America
American Association of Airport Executives
American Society of Travel Advisors
Cargo Airline Association
General Aviation Manufacturers Association
International Air Transport Association
National Air Carrier Association
Regional Airline Association
RTCA
Travel Technology Association
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
U.S. Travel Association