Airlines Push Back on New Ebola Declaration for U.S.-Bound Travelers
Airline groups say the deadline is too tight for a new declaration covering international flights to the United States. The CDC requirement takes effect November 3 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
By Reuven
Major airline groups are urging the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reconsider a new Ebola-related declaration for travelers flying to the United States, arguing that airlines have been given too little time to change their systems and procedures.
The International Air Transport Association and Airlines for America raised the objections in letters reviewed by Reuters. The groups said the deadline would require rapid changes to check-in systems, digital signatures, training and airport procedures.
The CDC order requires people boarding an international flight to the United States to attest that they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the previous 21 days. It takes effect for flights departing a foreign country at or after 11:59 p.m. EST on November 3, 2026.
CDC issued the original order on October 22 and amended it on October 28 to clarify that the requirement also covers crew, including those on cargo aircraft and crew traveling to take up another assignment. The requirement is not limited to travelers coming directly from Africa. It covers international flights into or connecting through the United States, including passengers who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Transit through a DRC airport counts as being present in the country, even if a traveler did not leave the airport or aircraft. Airlines must collect the declaration in paper or digital form and refuse boarding to a person who does not complete it, unless a U.S. government exemption applies.
Each passenger needs a separate declaration. A parent, guardian or other authorized person can sign for a child under 18. Airlines are required to retain completed declarations for at least 42 days after arrival.
The measure is intended to reduce the risk of Ebola being introduced into the United States through air travel. The 21-day period reflects the maximum incubation period. The CDC had not immediately responded to Reuters' request for comment on the airline groups' objections.