Airline policies push sick passengers into flying

People flying while sick and spreading viruses is a significant concern in air travel. A passenger recounted an experience on United Airlines where they contracted a viral infection from a fellow traveler with visibly bright eyes. Another incident involved a Southwest Airlines flight from Baltimore to Las Vegas, where a woman hesitated to board because the man ahead of her was coughing heavily. Despite his efforts to cover his mouth and turn away, she expressed her reluctance but eventually boarded.

The broader issue lies in airline policies and cultural expectations that compel people to fly even when unwell. The financial burden of changing travel plans and the societal pressure to "tough it out" contribute significantly. For instance, American Airlines employees accumulate disciplinary points for missing work due to illness, despite having sick days in their contracts.

A tweet from Gary Leff dated March 6, 2016, highlighted the need for airlines to sell facemasks onboard: "Airlines need to sell facemasks inflight. Guy next to me hasn't stopped coughing all flight. I'd gladly buy him one. Or two."