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5 ways traveling will be different if you fly on American Airlines

American Airlines is taking steps to regain traveler confidence amid coronavirus concerns.

FORT WORTH, Texas — American Airlines is taking steps to regain traveler confidence amid the COVID-19 global pandemic. Here are five ways your travel experience will be different if you fly American.

Face coverings

Face coverings will be required for all travelers over the age of 2 starting July 29. They must be worn at airports and in-flight at all times except when eating or drinking.

Avoiding crowded flights

The airline will begin notifying customers when their flights are full. A customer who finds a less-crowded flight can switch the reservation at no extra cost.

Changing travel plans

American Airlines will waive change fees for new reservations made through July 31.

For reservations already purchased, change fees will also be waived for travel scheduled through Sept. 30.

Enhanced cleaning and disinfection

American Airlines launched enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures, including the use of electrostatic spray inside each aircraft every seven days. The airline says the process kills 99.9999% of viruses and bacteria within 10 minutes.

Adjusting to COVID-19 in the long run

In addition to the immediate changes, the airline created a Travel Health Advisory Panel. Internal leaders will collaborate with outside infectious disease experts to advise on health and cleaning measures moving forward.

“Adjusting the way we fly so that when our customers return to the sky they can do so with complete confidence,” said American Airlines chairman and CEO Dough Parker. 

Parker said there is much uncertainty ahead but remains confident the airline will emerge from the COVID-19 crisis more efficiently than ever.

Click here to learn more about changes to travel, health and safety procedures.

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