Two U.S. senators are moving to safeguard air travel once the Covid-19 pandemic eases and people begin to step on airplanes again. Introduced by Massachusetts Democrat Edward Markey and Connecticut Democrat Richard Blumenthal, the Restoring Safety in the Skies Act of 2020 would establish a government task force to develop guidance and recommend requirements surrounding logistics, health, safety, and security issues involved with air travel during and after the coronavirus pandemic.

The task force would be jointly coordinated through the Departments of Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, and Transportation and involve airports, airlines, aviation workers, and public health experts, among others. It would have six months to submit a final report with recommendations.

“Air travel has been uniquely affected by the current pandemic,” said Markey, who is a member of the Senate Commerce Committee. “That’s why experts across all of the relevant agencies and groups must come together to address the immediate challenges to safety in our skies, as well as start planning for the ‘new normal’ after the coronavirus subsides.”

These plans must protect the safety and security of the flying public, he added. “We must be smart and think big as we tackle these unprecedented challenges.”

“As we look beyond this crisis, the recommendations, plans, and guidelines of the task force will chart a clear path to resuming safe, responsible operations and travel,” agreed Blumenthal, who also is a member of the Commerce Committee.

The legislation drew praise from pilots, flight attendants, and airport representatives. Lisa Wieland, CEO of the Massachusetts Port Authority stressed the importance of consistency in restoring the public’s confidence. “All airports will need to adjust operations to protect the health of passengers and airport employees. We look forward to working with the task force on these important issues.”