Return to Travel Safely - An Update From Our Airline Partners

Air Canada has implemented flexible and expanded booking options. Customers are able to make a one-time change without a fee for all new or existing bookings made through December 31, 2020 for original travel between March 1, 2020 and December 31, 2021. For flights booked directly with Air Canada, tickets can be converted to an Air Canada Travel Voucher that has no expiry date or to Aeroplan Miles with an additional 65 per cent bonus miles. 

Air Canada has also introduced an industry-leading program committed to end-to-end health and safety protocols throughout the travel process, from check-in, to boarding, and while on board. Masks continue to be mandatory for those over the age of 2, but there may be instances where you are exempt from wearing a face covering. Please note - Masks with an exhalation valve, bandanas, and scarves, have been deemed ineffective in the protection against COVID-19, according to requirements outlined by Transport Canada.  

For flights as of December 15, 2020, you will need to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours from departure at the airport check-in and/or prior to boarding the flight. Note that you may need another negative COVID-19 test for your return journey if the departure of your return trip exceeds 72h from the time your test was taken. 

WestJet continues to adjust their destinations and flight frequencies to meet demand and the changing COVID-19 environment.  There is no fee to change or cancel flights booked before December 21 and the full value of your cancelled flight will be credited to a Travel Bank (valid for 24 months from date of issue). They have enhanced procedures to reduce contact at check-in and encourage guests to check in online or download their app to limit contact. WestJet has also implemented increased cleaning procedures to wipe down surfaces between guests, ensure adequate spacing in line, and allow you to handle your own bags. 

WestJet requires all travelers to wear a mask (please note that masks with an exhalation vent are not acceptable). Through their enhanced screening at boarding, they will be asking health questions required by Transport Canada and take your temperature without contact. 

For extra peace of mind, WestJet provides a disinfectant wipe to freshen your seat area and will have a small menu of snacks for purchase for flights over 60 minutes and a snack and bottled water at your seat when you board.  

United Airlines has implemented a United CleanPlus℠ program and teamed up with Clorox to put safety and cleanliness at the forefront. They are also working closely with the experts at Cleveland Clinic to advise on enhancing safety measures. 

United Airlines requires you to complete a “Ready-to-fly” checklist at check-in and encourage customers to download their app for contactless travel assistance. They have also created an automated assistant to help answer any questions about safety, cleaning, face coverings and more.  

For your convenience, United Airlines has permanently eliminated change fees for most economy and premium cabin tickets for flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. You will also be notified when your flight is fairly full so that you can have the option to change it. 
 

American Airlines treats their planes with electrostatic spraying once a week with an EPA-approved disinfectant and have begun to treat their planes with SurfaceWise®2, a breakthrough coating that provides enhanced protection by sustained killing of 99.9 per cent of viruses, including coronaviruses on surfaces. They will be rolling out the treatment across their fleet in the coming months. High-touch and public areas like tray tables, seatbelt buckles, armrests, window shades, seatback screens, doors and overhead bin handles continue to be cleaned before every flight. 

American Airlines has undergone enhanced cleaning of kiosks, ticket counters, passenger service counters and baggage service offices, and have added hand sanitizer dispensers before security areas in select locations. They have installed commercial-grade shields at boarding gates and service desks. A face covering is required in the airport and while flying on American, except for children under 2 years old. Food and drink service in the Main Cabin is limited. On some longer flights, snack bags will be available when you board.  

At LodgeLink, we are committed to our customers and partners in ensuring safe workforce travel. We offer an-end-to-end crew travel management solution, from accommodation to transportation. Through our platform, you can now request air travel through your LodgeLink account. Our friendly experts will help you find the best options for you and your crew. Through our platform, you can also manage risk and provide safety and security in the event of a travel disruption by using LodgeLink’s Duty of Care program. This program will help you manage risk and care for your team while they are on the road.  

*Note: The information in this post is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of publication date (Nov. 25, 2020). Please visit each organization’s page for more updates. 

• Air Canada 
•  West Jet
• United Airlines
• American Airlines