Could The US Implement Domestic Flight Restrictions To Prevent Spread Of Coronavirus?

As the coronavirus spreads across the United States, the Trump administration is considering whether it should enact domestic flight restrictions. President Trump has said that if “an area gets out of control” this option would be implemented.

There are currently at least 2,885 cases of coronavirus in the United States. States with the most cases include New York, Washington and California. Domestic flight restrictions to cities in states with high numbers of cases could prevent further spread of the virus.

At the same time, these restrictions would further hurt the airline industry, which has been dramatically impacted by the coronavirus crisis. Delta Air Lines, for example, has laid off 800 contract employees, as the company faces reduced demand and fewer passengers. Southwest Airlines CEO Gary Kelly has said his company has seen a “9/11-like” drop in bookings. United Airlines has also reported a 70% drop in domestic demand this week due to the virus.

The White House is considering a relief bill that would assist major U.S. airlines such as Delta or United. The legislation would also likely help other parts of the travel industry, such as cruise lines.

“We are in discussions with the White House and Congress regarding the support they can provide to help us through this period,” Delta’s CEO Ed Bastian wrote to employees Friday.

Yet, the bill will likely require some negotiations with Democrats who are cautious of bailing out private companies during a public health crisis. The administration has already signed a $8.5 billion relief bill which would assist state governments in fighting the virus. Trump is also expected to sign a bill that would help workers who are laid off as a result of the emergency and would provide free coronavirus testing to all Americans.