We are taking an engineering-based approach , where we are addressing head on COVID-19 just like any other threat to the safety of an airplane , with multiple independent layers of protections . We start by assessing the hazard , understanding the environment and applying proven aerospace engineering processes and practices to address the problem .
One example of the proven aerospace approach being taken by the CTI team is the use of data-driven analysis , modeling and live testing of the risks of transmission from the start to the end of the passenger journey . Data-based decisions then can be made about the layers of protection needed to best protect passengers , flight crews , and airport personnel to keep the travel environment safe . Whether it ’ s developing new technologies , applying existing technologies or creating new solutions , we are consistently evaluating ways to add new protective layers to the system .
The multiple layers of protection are built around three key objectives .
1 . Prevent the virus from reaching the airplane .
This involves everything from electronic check-in and preflight documentation for passengers at home , to ensuring safe and clean transportation to the airport and touchless procedures and temperature screening in the terminal area . Passengers play a critical role in ensuring a safe travel experience with personal responsibility measures that include wearing face masks , following good hygiene practices and ultimately not flying if one feels sick or has any symptoms . Boeing is supportive of passengers and crews wearing face masks throughout the travel journey in order to protect themselves and other travelers .
2 . Protect the airplane through disinfecting and cleaning .
Photo Credit : The Boeing Company
Boeing is working to advise airlines on enhanced cleaning standards and other preventive measures to protect the health and safety of every person boarding an airplane . Boeing is also engaged in the research , test and evaluation of a number of promising new technologies , such as advanced UV devices for cabin and cockpit disinfection and the potential application of antimicrobial surface treatments to combat any viruses should they get on an airplane .
For example , the Boeing team has tested and analyzed 20 disinfectants for the aircraft since April , and approved eight for the passenger cabin . Testing and ultimate approval is a rigorous process .
3 . Limit the potential transmission of viruses on the airplane .
The cabin environment is a mix of fresh air coming into the aircraft and recirculated air that passes through a hospital-grade filtration system before returning to the cabin . All modern Boeing airplanes come equipped with High-Efficiency Particulate Air ( HEPA ) filters as part of the cabin air circulation system , which act to remove more than 99.9 percent of particulates and significantly reduce the potential for illness transmissions in an aircraft . The volume of cabin air is completely replenished every two to three minutes .
OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2020 ISSUE NO . 17 21