COVID-19: This is Not Business as Usual

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is having an unprecedented impact on the travel industry – and the world in general. Thousands of flights have been cancelled, travel bans are being introduced and millions have had their travel plans disrupted. In this episode, Matt takes a detailed look at what this all means for travellers.

Episode contents:

1:33 – Fortnightly news round-up
10:57 – COVID-19 and its impact on travel
15:13 – Should we be avoiding overseas travel right now?
28:20 – Changing or cancelling a trip due to COVID-19
31:34 – TAP Air Portugal status match
35:31 – Taking advantage of airline award chart loopholes

Links:

AFF on Air Discussion thread – a dedicated AFF thread to discuss the podcast and ask questions
Smartraveller COVID-19 updates
Updated WHO recommendations for international traffic in relation to COVID-19 outbreak
Bruce Poon Tip addresses coronavirus epidemic in heartfelt message to G Adventures travellers (Travel Weekly article)
Opinion: The world needs travel, and coronavirus is everywhere anyway (God Save The Points article)
IATA advice on country travel restrictions
Credit Card Travel Insurance May Not Cover Coronavirus
Cruising choices with an active Pandemic (AFF thread)
Star Alliance Status Match with TAP Portugal
Airline Award Chart Sweet Spots & Loopholes – upcoming Frequent Flyer Solutions webinar

Frequent Flyer Gazette articles referenced in the fortnightly news round-up:

________________________