Santa Maria Island Holidays

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to dramatic changes to the way we travel. If you're planning a trip to Santa Maria Island, these tips will help you navigate the "new normal:"

• Before committing to anything, see if any travel restrictions apply — in both your destination and origin. Get the latest updates by reviewing government and airport websites.
• Requirements state that you must wear a face mask at the airport, including at screening checkpoints. You should be prepared to adjust your mask for ID purposes when asked.
• To reduce the potential of cross-contamination, position your boarding pass on the scanner yourself and then hold it up for inspection. Do not hand your pass directly to a TSA agent.
• TSA is now permitting 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 for scanning.
• Put any personal items (phone, keys and wallet) in your carry-on instead of a bin to minimize handling during the screening process.
• If you're taking food on the plane with you, place it in a clear plastic bag and then into a scanning bin. This reduces the likelihood that a TSA employee will need to touch your carry-on bag or food container for inspection.

Board a plane now and you're likely to notice some changes. For instance, most reputable carriers have introduced social distancing and improved hygiene measures. Two great examples are:

• SATA Air Acores - this airline is known for cleaning with disinfectant and providing passenger masks.
• Azores Airlines - this airline is known for providing passenger masks and capped capacity flights.