Airlines Push Back Against New Ebola-Related Travel Requirement

Major airline groups in the U.S. and internationally are challenging a new travel mandate related to Ebola. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that starting November 3, all passengers on flights to the United States must confirm they haven’t been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the preceding 21 days. This rule applies to U.S. citizens, green card holders, and airline crews.

Before boarding, travelers need to fill out a paper or digital statement, even if they haven’t visited the Congo. Airlines must retain these forms for 42 days post-flight as per CDC requirements.

“This was a step in the right direction, given the fact that we have to take this seriously,” commented Dr. Tyler Evans, an infectious disease physician.

Airlines for America (A4A), a group representing major carriers like American, Delta, and others, asked the CDC to reconsider and extend the compliance timeframe. They argued the requirement is too broad and rapid.

The CDC aims to minimize Ebola’s entry risk via air travel. The specified 21 days match the maximum symptom onset period following exposure. The regulation prohibits boarding for passengers who were in the Congo unless exempt, pointing to potential fines for fraudulent information.

The International Air Transport Association echoed the request to revisit the mandate. A4A seeks exemptions for crew members, citing existing documentation requirements, as well as for military charters.

Dr. Evans noted, “This is the second-largest Ebola outbreak in history” and emphasized the urgency. He mentioned that early symptoms might resemble the flu, emphasizing effective screening’s role in transmission prevention.

Fox News Digital reached out to the CDC and IATA for more insights on the mandate.