Coronavirus outbreak: It's safe to travel, SpiceJet, GoAir tell customers

SpiceJet is urging customers to travel without worry in an outreach effort to prevent slide in bookings. The airline has listed its own coronavirus prevention measures and World Health Organisation  (WHO) messages in an email to reassure customers. GoAir too has written to customers about its safety measures which include enhanced aircraft cleaning, disinfecting touch screens among others.

" At SpiceJet we are taking all possible steps to ensure the safety of our passengers. At the same time we would like to assure every one that it is absolutely  safe to continue international travel, tourism and trade and advise every one to take necessary precautions to avoid the risk of infection," the airline said in its customer email.

Flight occupancy and fresh bookings have dropped over ten per cent in last few days as individuals and corporates defer trips. International travel is already hit due to a series of visa restrictions imposed by countries. The restrictions have forced airlines to cancel flights and ground aircraft.

"Despite the low risk of exposure, we want you to feel confident when traveling with GoAir. As a result, we have enhanced some of our cleaning procedures in the interest of our customers' and employees' health and safety," GoAir said in a communication to passengers.  "We have equipped all employees with disinfectants, sanitizers, gloves and other protective equipment, particularly for those who engage directly with customers.  Education on WHO guidelines and training to our employees is ongoing, " the airline added.

SpiceJet said its ground staff have been advised to use sanitisers, employees entering the aircraft have been provided masks and gloves and regular disinfection of aircraft is being carried out to control the spread of disease. " During night halt  extensive deep cleaning of aircraft is being done," its said.

Quoting the WHO, the airline said it is safe to travel by air. " India is one of the least affected countries with less than 100 confirmed coronavirus cases and zero death in a population of over 135 crore," SpiceJet said in its email.