Business Treaveler logo

Travel news, reviews and intel for high-flyers

United Offers Interactive Guide to Travel Restrictions

The tool highlights COVID-19 travel requirements by state and will expand to international destinations in the coming weeks

September 3, 2020

United Airlines has introduced a new interactive map tool on united.com and the United mobile app that allows customers to filter and view destinations’ COVID-19 related travel restrictions.

The Destination Travel Guide, a first among US airlines, provides an interactive, color-coded map to highlight if a destination is closed, partially open or fully open for travel, and will also note if any tests or self-quarantining is required for travel.

Constantly changing rules and restrictions are putting a premium on accurate travel information, prompting more travel organizations to offer easy ways for travelers to stay up to date. Last month for example, the International Air Transport Association rolled out an online interactive world map,  which provide global information on the latest COVID-19 entry regulations by country.

The United Airlines guide currently highlights travel restrictions and leisure offerings in the US by state, allowing customers to click on each state to view local regulations and travel guidance. United says the guide will be expanded to include all international destinations the airline serves in the coming weeks.

Customers can filter destinations to view local regulations, such as social distancing and mask enforcement, as well as to see if hotels, restaurants, and other leisure outlets are open to the public.

There is also the option to filter the map by state to view specific information on each destination, including:

• Medical certificate needed (such as negative COVID test)

• Non-essential shops open

• Tourism accommodation open

• Restaurants open

• Bars and cafes open

• Museum and heritage sites open

• Mask in public required

• Physical distancing required

“We know it’s a challenge to keep up with the ever-changing list of travel restrictions, policies and regulations,” said Linda Jojo, executive vice president for technology and chief digital officer. “By providing the most up-to-date information on the destinations we serve, customers can compare and shop for travel with greater confidence and help them find the destinations that best fit their preferences.”