Blocking middle seats on planes reduces virus risk by half, US study suggests

Airlines argue that filters and air-flow systems on most planes make them safe when passengers wear face masks (Jeff Chiu/AP)

Leaving middle seats open could give airline passengers more protection from the virus that causes Covid-19, a new study suggests.

Researchers said the risk of passengers being exposed to the virus from an infected person on the plane could be reduced by 23% to 57% if middle seats are empty, compared with a full flight.