Global travel deals will be subject to reversals

Significance

The pandemic has seen an unprecedented reduction in global travel. Previously unthinkable travel bans and border closures have been implemented throughout the world in an attempt to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Many countries are now beginning to ease restrictions, aiming to achieve a new and sustainable normal. Travel is a crucial component of the global economy and the sector is restarting, but it faces major challenges.

Impacts

• Domestic air travel will begin its recovery much ahead of international travel as it will not have to deal with border restrictions.
• Large outbreaks could lead to quarantines for individuals traveling to and from the affected country until control has been regained.
• Improvements in testing quality and capacity will significantly aid the global recovery process.