Cabot Trail Trip

The COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in big changes to how we travel. If you're planning an escape to Cabot Trail, these tips will help you navigate the "new normal:"

• Before you book a flight, check if any travel bans or restrictions apply — in both your origin and destination. Get up-to-date information by checking official government websites.
• Requirements state you must wear a face mask at the airport, even at screening checkpoints. Be ready to lower your mask to verify your identity when asked by a TSA employee.
• Do not hand your boarding pass directly to a TSA employee. Rather, position your pass on the scanner and then hold it up to allow the agent to visually inspect it.
• One liquid hand sanitizer container is now permitted in your carry-on bag. It must not be larger than 12 oz (350 ml), and you'll need to remove it from your bag for scanning.
• To minimize handling during screening, place personal items such as your loose change and phone into your carry-on instead of into the bins.
• If you're bringing food on the plane, place it in a clear plastic bag and then into a screening bin. This reduces the likelihood that a TSA agent will need to touch your carry-on bag or food container for inspection.

Physical distancing is the tip of the iceberg for new aviation measures to lessen the spread of COVID-19. From your first steps on board, these airlines will carry you to your destination with greater peace of mind:

• Air Canada - this airline is known for conducting passenger temperature checks and cleaning with disinfectant.
• WestJet - this airline is known for cleaning with disinfectant and electrostatic cleaning.
• PAL Airlines - this airline is known for cleaning with disinfectant and providing passenger masks.