Mahajanga Holidays

With new safety guidelines in effect, travel looks a little different at present. Here are a few things to know before you get on that plane to Mahajanga:

• Before locking in your flight, find out if any travel restrictions apply — in both your origin and destination. Get the latest updates by reviewing government and travel websites.
• Wear a face mask during airport screening. A TSA employee will require you to temporarily lower your mask to verify your identity.
• Rather than handing a TSA employee your boarding pass, place it directly on the scanner yourself. Then, hold it up for inspection.
• 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 screening.
• To reduce handling during screening, place items such as your belt, phone and wallet into your carry-on instead of the bins.
• Transport your food items in a clear plastic bag and also put them in a screening bin. Keeping your food separate from your carry-on makes it less likely that a TSA agent will need to open your bag for inspection.

While flying during the COVID-19 pandemic can be nerve-wracking, airlines are doing their bit to protect the well-being of all on board. These are some carriers that have introduced changes:

• Air Mauritius - this airline is known for conducting passenger temperature checks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• Air Austral - this airline is known for cleaning with disinfectant and providing passenger masks.
• Kenya Airways - this airline is known for conducting passenger temperature checks and cleaning with disinfectant.