[katieHaylor (OP)]

Peter says:

Would it be possible for air passengers to wear thin strong plastic trousers and tops with elasticated waists, sleeves and ankles, which would go through a walk through disinfectant spray before boarding and upon arrival at their destination?

On the aircraft a hood could be fitted to the back of each seat that could be pulled over each person a bit like a push chair with a zip on the isle side to receive sandwiches and drinks etc. If only hand luggage was allowed that would cut down on queues, then people would have to buy top up clothes at their destination.

What do you think?

[alancalverd]

No problem in principle, but you'd have to issue the kit as they enter the airport or even get on the train/bus that takes them there - the biggest  sweaty crowd is in check-in, "security", the cafes, and the bit where you have to run the gauntlet of people selling overpriced stuff you don't need (like wristwatches and suitcases - does anyone ever get to an airport without both?) Then there's the small problem of breathing. Full isolation suits do work, but you need some training and acclimatisation to avoid picking your nose or using the toilet for 12 hours.

It's actually more efficient, mechanically safer and less likely to transmit infection if you ban hand luggage and put everything that won't fit in a pocket, in the hold.

I think that known infectious patients have been transported by separating the seats  (or stretchers) with plastic curtains, but they still need to be whizzed through VIP departures rather than mix with the great unwashed.