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CDC director blasts American Airlines for selling full capacity flights
The CDC chief has taken aim at American Airlines for ending the blocking of the middle seat.
CDC director Dr. Robert Redfield voiced ‘substantial disappointment’ with AA’s decision to now sell all seats in the cabin.
"It’s really important that individuals that are in, whether it’s a bus or a train or a plane, are social distancing to the degree that’s feasible." Redfield said during a Senate committee hearing.
"We don’t think it’s the right message."
The government’s top Covid-19 expert Dr. Anthony Fauci also criticized the airline.
"Obviously that is something that is of concern. I’m not sure what went into that decision making," Fauvi said.
"I think in the confines of an airplane that becomes even more problematic."
American Airlines stops blocking the middle seat as of July 1, and isn’t the only carrier to do so.
United Airlines, Spirit and Allegiant Air aren’t blocking seats either.
American maintains it has the necessary protocols in place to protect passengers.
"We have multiple layers of protection in place for those who fly with us, including face coverings, and enhanced cleaning procedures," said spokesperson Ross Feinstein.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has said it is impossible to guarantee effective social distancing on planes even with the middle seat blocked.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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