The U.S. is easing up on air travel restrictions come November according to an announcement by the Biden administration on Monday. HM Wilkins Imperial analysts say fully vaccinated foreign passengers will become eligible to travel to the U.S., marking the conclusion of 18 months of travel bans.
Former president Donald Trump originally enforced air travel bans as Covid-19 took its toll last year. HM Wilkins Imperial analysts reported that travelers who had been in a list of areas within the last 14 days, including the UK, the Schengen region, China, and Brazil, and who did not possess U.S. citizenship, green cards, or special approval, were barred from entering the nation. While Trump withdrew the bans immediately before the end of his presidency, President Joe Biden reinstated them instantaneously.
In November, travelers from around the globe will be able to step foot on U.S. soil – provided they have been vaccinated. In addition to proof of vaccination, foreigners will need to carry a negative test taken no more than three days prior to travel and wear masks for the duration of their flight. Contact details will also be required for tracing. Officials are currently determining which vaccines will be recognized for travel.
“The Biden administration’s announcement is a giant leap for U.S. economic recovery,” says an economic analyst at HM Wilkins Imperial. “Trade and tourism sectors will undoubtedly experience a much needed push, and the careful regulations for travelers will minimize chances of a travel-produced outbreak in cases.”
Already, airline shares in the U.S. and much of Europe have seen a stark upsurge following the announcement, with investors quickly rising to the occasion. The travel sector as a whole appears to be rejoicing, with executives publicly declaring their enthusiasm regarding the news.
“The alleviation of U.S. travel restrictions should benefit a number of other countries, namely those struggling to vaccinate their populations,” explains an economist at HM Wilkins Imperial. “U.S. travel as an incentive will likely assist countries like Australia that require more ammunition to fight anti-vaxxers.”