Air bubble agreement is a term that has gained prominence in the last few months, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It refers to an agreement between two or more countries to allow their airlines to operate flights between them, even though travel restrictions are in place. These agreements are designed to facilitate air travel while minimizing the risk of spreading the virus.
The basic idea behind air bubble agreement is to create a virtual corridor between two countries, allowing airlines to operate flights without having to comply with the otherwise strict travel restrictions. This is done by limiting the number of flights and mandating certain protocols to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members.
Air bubble agreements are usually signed between countries that have a low number of COVID-19 cases. These agreements are typically bilateral, and the terms and conditions of the agreement are negotiated between the two countries.
The first air bubbles were formed in June 2020, when India signed an agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to operate special flights between the two countries. Since then, several other countries, including Canada, Greece, Italy, and Turkey, have signed air bubble agreements with various countries.
The benefits of air bubble agreements are manifold. They allow people to travel to and from countries with minimal restrictions, which is particularly beneficial for those who need to travel for work or family reasons. These agreements also help keep the airlines afloat, which is essential for the travel industry`s survival.
However, air bubble agreements also have some drawbacks. For one, they are only temporary measures, and there is always the risk of further travel restrictions being imposed. Additionally, these agreements can be challenging to negotiate and implement, as different countries may have different protocols in place.
In conclusion, air bubble agreements are a crucial tool in the fight against COVID-19. They allow for safe air travel while minimizing the risk of spreading the virus. As the pandemic continues to evolve, we can expect to see more countries signing air bubble agreements to facilitate international travel.