BARIG welcomes gradual removal of travel restrictions across Germany

The Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG) – the joint representation of interests of more than 100 German, European and global airlines – has welcomed the German federal government’s exchange with the European Union (EU) member states in which discussions focused on reopening further external borders (presumably as of 15 June 2020), as well as working to remove routine-based quarantine measures currently required when entering the country.

This is a significant initiative, as the re-opening of borders and the gradual removal of travel warnings will lead to the resumption of important transport routes by land, sea and air. This will not only make a considerable contribution to improving the international movement of goods, but will also allow for people to reunite across national borders within the EU – families, friends or even business partners can then again plan and undertake their journeys with confidence.

Michael Hoppe, Secretary General of BARIG, said: “We will regain an essential part of quality of life and mobility when travel between closely related countries will be possible again after the long weeks of pandemic restrictions. The flow of goods and the free movement of people are at the core of good international relations between nations and citizens. We, therefore, appreciate steps taken by the federal government to take initiatives, also with important partner countries outside the EU, to enable people to travel safely. In addition to many further countries around the world, these include, for instance, Turkey and other countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.”

The top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic is the health of people and passengers. In this context, flying is one of the safest modes of transport. Comprehensive hygiene concepts and measures implemented both by airport operators and airlines – including adequate social distancing, the wearing of mouth-nose-protection, and intensified cleaning routines in the aircraft cabins – all contribute to this goal.

Hoppe continued: “The foundations for safe flying in terms of health and hygiene have been laid. In addition, agreements between countries may ensure that passengers can rely on certain coordinated health and hygiene standards and, therefore, start their journey without concerns.”