Major airline groups in the United States and internationally are opposing a new travel rule related to Ebola, set to affect millions flying into the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mandates that, starting November 3, all passengers on international flights to the U.S. confirm they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the previous 21 days.
New Rule Details
This requirement applies to everyone entering or connecting through the U.S., including American citizens, green card holders, and airline crew members. Travelers must fill out a paper or digital statement before boarding. Airlines are tasked with gathering and storing these forms for 42 days after the flight arrives in the U.S.
Airlines for America (A4A), representing major carriers like American, Delta, Southwest, United, and JetBlue, is asking the CDC for reconsideration. They seek more time to prepare, hoping to avoid overly broad measures. In a letter dated October 26, A4A expressed support for CDC’s public health aims but argued the need for a slower rollout.
Calls for Adjustments
A4A suggested focusing more specifically on affected areas and travelers recently there. They also requested a delay, noting the time needed for changes to check-in systems, training, and station procedures.
Changes to check-in systems, digital signatures, station procedures, and training cannot readily be completed in the allotted time,A4A wrote.
Dr. Tyler Evans, an infectious disease expert, stated that taking the Ebola threat seriously is crucial. As the second-largest Ebola outbreak in history unfolds, he emphasized the importance of preventive measures. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) also requested the CDC to reconsider the requirement.
Controversy and Concerns
IATA, representing over 370 airlines globally, contended that expecting airlines to change procedures rapidly is unreasonable. They asked for exemptions for crew members, citing existing aviation documentation. A4A made a similar request for U.S. military passenger charters, emphasizing the military’s health tracking systems.
The CDC stated the rule aims to reduce Ebola’s risk of entering the U.S. via air travel. The 21-day reflection period allows time for symptoms to manifest after exposure. Travelers who have been in the DRC within those 21 days, even during airport layovers, are barred from U.S.-bound flights unless exempted by the government.
Infectious Disease Risks
Some of the initial symptoms would just be flu-like symptoms. You’ll have a high-grade fever, you’ll feel sort of fatigued,said Dr. Evans in discussing symptom onset.
Dr. Evans, experienced in past Ebola responses in West Africa and the DRC, stressed the infectious nature of Ebola and its high fatality rates. He highlighted that Americans might not perceive Ebola as relevant, despite its severe risks.
Providing false information knowingly could lead to prosecution and fines, as specified by the CDC. Fox News Digital contacted the CDC and IATA for additional comments.
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