Green Pass, new transportation rules from September
September will be a very important month in terms of transportation and, in general, travel. It will be necessary to keep [...]
September will be a very important month with regard to transportation and travel in general. It will be necessary to take into account the new measures that will come into effect in relation to planes, trains, ships and long-distance buses.
In this article:
The Green Pass is a tool we will have to live with for a long time. A document to be constantly alongside one's ID card or passport. Being able to prove that one is vaccinated or cured of the Covid will be crucial to everyday life for a long time to come, until there is enough coverage to allow true "living with" the virus. All this is demonstrated by the new decree law on this issue, which was approved by the government at the August 5 Council of Ministers meeting.
Green Pass by air
As of Sept. 1, one must carry a version of the Green Pass, either paper or digital, at all times when intending to board an aircraft. This applies to both domestic and international routes. There are also no exemptions for the Aircraft equipped with filters that ensure air exchange at 98%. Please note that as an alternative to this documentation, a negative swab result can be submitted, which is valid for 48 hours.
Green Pass by Train
The vaccination certification requirement will also be triggered on board long-distance trains. This restriction will allow for greater safety on board, prompting the authorization of increased capacity. It will move from the current 50% to the 80%. A marked improvement for operating companies as well. A solution that also involves high-speed and intercity (including overnight).
Green Pass by bus
Certification will also be mandatory for bus travel. Involved both vehicles in continuous or periodic road operation. The same applies to buses used in rental services with drivers. Except for those exploited in additional local and regional public transport services.
Green Pass by ship
Green certification is required for any ship or ferry that is used for interregional transport. However, there are some exceptions to keep in mind. Under no circumstances will this requirement be active for vessels used for the maritime connection in the Strait of Messina. The same is true for hydrofoils connecting to the smaller islands. This in fact falls under local transportation.
Local transportation
There is a clear separation, for the time being, between local, national and international transportation. In the latter two cases, beyond the means chosen, a Green Pass, digital or paper, is always required. In contrast, there is no requirement for short-haul travel. It will be possible to board a regional train, therefore, as well as in the subway.
As much as all this poses a risk, thinking, for example, of commuters and students, the government has decided not to go beyond requiring the now well-known social distancing, to which is obviously added the use of a mask. Such dictates apply to any enclosed environment. It goes without saying that this group of exceptions includes streetcars and buses.
Any short transportation is allowed without certification, so as not to overburden the world of work and study (in particular). The exception is airplanes, which are not deemed essential. In this case, even short trips will require a Green Pass for boarding.
