Airlines react to swine flu cautions

WASHINGTON, April 30 (UPI) -- The Air Transport Association expressed dismay over U.S. Vice President Joe Biden's suggestion to avoid traveling due to the swine flu outbreak.

Biden, in an appearance on NBC's "Today" show, suggested people should avoid air travel, mass transit and any place with known cases of H1N1 swine flu.

In a statement, Air Transport Association Chief Executive Officer James May said Biden's comments were "extremely disappointing."

"The airlines have been working daily with government agencies, none of whom suggest people avoid air travel unless they are not feeling well," May said. "The fact is that the air onboard a commercial aircraft is cleaner than that in most public buildings."

Southwest Airlines Co. spokesman Paul Flaningan said the association's comment "speaks for itself."

"Of course, people should practice good personal hygiene habits and stay at home if they are sick as advised, but life must go on. Air travel has a vital role in our economy, which could use all the help it can get," Flaningan said.