COVID-19: Guidelines on the progressive restoration of transport services and connectivity

Summary:

Communication published by the European Commission on 13 May 2020, setting out guidance on a gradual re-establishment of transport, in the context of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

Further information:

The virus outbreak strongly affected transport and connectivity in the European Union (EU). Measures to contain the outbreak resulted in a dramatic reduction in transport activity, especially in passenger transport.

The Commission issued guidance on restrictions on non-essential travel and put forward measures specifically for transport as the health emergency unfolded. As the situation began to improve, it became important that transport services and connectivity were progressively restored within the limits that epidemiological conditions allow. In April 2020, a Joint European Roadmap was published for the lifting of containment measures.

These guidelines provide a common framework to support Member states during reestablishment of connectivity. They consist of general principles applicable to all transport services and specific recommendations designed to address the characteristics of each transport mode. They aim to provide further guidance on how to progressively restore transport services, connectivity and free movement as swiftly as the health situation allows it, while protecting the health of transport workers and passengers. They should primarily be applied for transport within and between Member States.

The document was published as part of a package of initiatives, spearheaded by an umbrella Communication.

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