What to anticipate when flying for spring break

For most people who experienced spring break last year starting in mid-March, it felt like there was no spring break at all. Lockdowns, stay-at-home orders, quarantines, cancellations, and an escalating sense of uncertainty took over. The coronavirus had just begun to spread in the U.S., making it an inopportune time for trips to Disneyland, skiing, or beach outings.

At that time, it wasn’t really a matter of choice—most destinations, including beaches, were shut down.

However, it’s a new year and a different phase of the pandemic. While not everyone is in the same situation, in many regions (for better or worse), spring break is back for 2021. Although it may not resemble the spring breaks of the past, it is certainly a significant improvement over the spring lockdowns of 2020.

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you prepare if you're flying this spring break.

How crowded are flights?

It varies.

According to the latest statistics from Airlines for America, domestic flights were operating at just over 60% capacity during a recent week, compared to 83.4% during the same week in 2019. This figure is likely to rise a bit as we approach the spring break period. However, whether your specific flight will be crowded depends largely on your destination.

For instance, as of January 2021, states like Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire saw air travel down by over 70% compared to typical levels. In contrast, areas like Wyoming and the Virgin Islands are much closer to pre-pandemic norms.

Travelers heading to some of the current most sought-after destinations—primarily sunny getaways and ski resorts with more relaxed entry protocols—may find planes that are nearly full. Conversely, if you're flying to a less popular location with stricter COVID entry rules, the flights could be at or below that recent average of 60% capacity.

Are middle seats still unavailable?

With one main exception, not really.

In the U.S., only Delta Air Lines is consistently blocking middle seats across its entire fleet. This policy is currently set to continue until April 30, 2021, ensuring coverage throughout the spring break period.

For airlines other than Delta, if you want to ensure that the middle seat remains empty, it may be feasible but will come at an additional cost. Some airlines offer the option to purchase the middle seat to keep it vacant, which could be a viable choice if you or your children prefer not to be squeezed next to someone else just yet.

Are masks still required?

On flights and in airports—yes.

Although some regions, like Texas, have lifted mask mandates, this does not extend to all areas of travel.

Generally, airports and airplanes fall under federal regulations, which means masks are mandatory in most situations according to an executive order issued by President Biden. Therefore, if you're traveling to or from Texas, you'll still need to wear a mask.

In addition to mask mandates for planes, trains, buses, and other forms of interstate travel, the executive order also requires masks to be worn in federal buildings and on federal land.

Moreover, even in states without mask mandates—like Texas and Florida—businesses retain the right to enforce their own requirements. This means that a spring break visit to Disney World or Universal Orlando will still necessitate following mask guidelines, just as it did previously.

If you typically use a neck gaiter or bandana as your mask, remember that these may no longer be considered acceptable in many places.

For instance, Southwest Airlines explicitly prohibits bandanas, scarves, ski masks, and balaclavas as acceptable face coverings. Disney World has similar regulations, requiring guests aged two and older to wear masks that secure with ties or ear loops. Neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas, and any face coverings with valves, mesh fabric, or holes are not permitted at Disney World.

Should I carry my vaccine card when traveling?

It may not be necessary yet, but having one wouldn't hurt.

As the idea of vaccine cards gaining traction as "quarantine exemption" passes through a vaccine passport emerges, most Americans' spring break trips won't see much change in testing or quarantine requirements with a vaccine card.

For instance, Governor Ige of Hawaii has indicated that a vaccine passport initiative might launch around May. At that time, vaccinated individuals may enjoy different entry rules compared to the current Safe Travels program. Nonetheless, it’s wise to keep a copy of your vaccine card handy, as regulations can shift rapidly and having that information close by is beneficial.

If you're planning international travel to nations implementing varying rules for vaccinated individuals, then definitely bring your vaccine card.

Will getting vaccinated allow me to avoid travel-related quarantine?

Not quite as much as you'd like -- for now.

As noted, there’s a limited (but expanding) number of countries with different quarantine guidelines for fully vaccinated travelers. However, in most instances, these regulations don't yet apply to travelers from the U.S. or haven't been fully implemented. Still, a few exceptions exist, and this list is expected to grow, so it's wise to do your homework if international travel is in your plans.

Is a COVID test necessary to board a flight?

It's generally advisable, but not always mandatory.

Although there were initial discussions about a possible mandatory testing requirement for domestic flights shortly after President Biden's inauguration, those conversations quickly died down.

The CDC still advises against non-essential travel. However, if you do choose to travel, they recommend getting a viral test 1-3 days before your trip and another 3-5 days afterward. For international travelers, a test is required within 3 days before returning to the U.S.

Fortunately, many well-known resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean have simplified this process by offering on-site testing options.

Different states, countries, and even some counties have their own testing requirements, so it's essential to research what is needed for your destination and what you'll need when returning home.

For instance, places like Hawaii, the Bahamas, and the British Virgin Islands have specific entry testing requirements. Conversely, destinations such as Mexico, Florida, and the Dominican Republic do not mandate that U.S. tourists present a negative test upon arrival.

Are in-flight meals and drinks available again?

Many airlines are nearing a return to "normalcy," but it's wise to bring your own snacks.

During the peak of the pandemic in 2020, most domestic flights offered little more than water and pretzels. Some airlines, like Southwest, still provide just that.

On some other airlines, certain services have resumed, though it’s not quite what it was a year ago. Shorter flights may still feature a limited menu. For instance, United does not serve snacks in economy on flights shorter than 2 hours and 20 minutes.

On Delta, economy passengers are not served alcohol on domestic flights or on routes to Mexico and the Caribbean.

The takeaway here is that in-flight services are gradually returning, but they may not be as extensive as you recall, so it's best to prepare accordingly.

Are airports back to their usual operations?

Some are fully operational, while others are still catching up.

TPG's Richard Kerr recently traveled from Orlando (MCO) and noted that the airport was busier than he had ever seen, with the security line extending all the way to the pre-security food court. Similarly, TPG's Ariana Arghandewal observed that San Francisco (SFO) was "... bustling and returning to normal this week" during her March flight, mentioning that most of the restaurants in the terminal appeared to have reopened.

However, as we've mentioned, not all airports are recovering at the same pace. In particular, some northeastern airports still see passenger levels significantly below normal, making it more likely to find lounges and restaurants still closed compared to places like Florida, Colorado, and Texas.

Here's an overview of airport lounges that have reopened, including all Amex Centurion Lounge locations, though many operate with limited hours, closing as early as 3 p.m. Be aware that food and drink options in most lounges have been modified to adhere to safety guidelines and local indoor dining regulations.

If you're concerned about potentially lengthy security lines at your chosen airport this spring break, now might be a great opportunity to try Clear, allowing you to bypass standard security lines with just your eye scan. You can register at the airport, but starting the process in advance is beneficial.

Final thoughts

We can see a glimmer of hope at the end of this long, strange tunnel, but flying this spring is still quite different from the norm.

Moreover, travel and flying have evolved significantly even in the past few months—becoming simpler in some ways but more restrictive in others.