Fewer passengers and higher prices. Flying changes after a pandemic

Airlines may have to reduce the number of passengers on each flight due to social distancing guidelines. IATA head Alexandre de Juniac stated that "one seat in each row will be emptied" on short flights if required by authorities. This could result in a significant reduction in capacity, for example, a Ryanair aircraft that normally holds 189 passengers would only be able to carry 126.

Such a change would significantly impact airlines' business models and could lead to a price increase of up to 50%, depending on supply and demand.

Some airlines, like Alaska Airlines, have already started implementing social distancing measures by leaving middle seats empty on larger planes and aisle seats empty on smaller planes. They are also offering to rebook passengers on a different flight or provide a refund if they are uncomfortable with the seating arrangements.