Eastern Panhandle Holidays

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant changes to the way we travel. If you're planning a holiday in Eastern Panhandle, the following tips will help you navigate these new rules and challenges:

• Understand what, if any, restrictions or rules apply to both your origin and destination. It may not be possible to travel depending on local circumstances, so check government advisories before booking.
• Requirements state you must wear a face mask at the airport, including at security checkpoints. Be ready to adjust your mask for ID verification when asked by a TSA officer.
• Avoid handing your boarding pass directly to a TSA employee. Rather, position the pass on the scanner and then hold it up so the agent can inspect it.
• TSA now permits passengers to take one container of hand sanitizer, up to 12 oz (350 ml) in size, in carry-on bags. This will have to be removed from your bag and presented for screening.
• Empty everything from your pockets, like your phone and wallet, and place them in your carry-on rather than into bins. This will minimize handling during screening.
• If you're taking food on the plane, put it in a clear plastic bag and then into a screening bin. This reduces the likelihood that a TSA agent will need to touch your carry-on bag or food container for closer inspection.

Social distancing is only one small part of new air travel strategies to help fight COVID-19. From the moment you check in, these carriers will take you to your destination with comfort and confidence:

• United Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• American Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Delta - this airline is known for electrostatic cleaning and cleaning with disinfectant.