Trump considers airline restrictions between U.S. virus hotspots

But pressed by reporters about a broader ban on travel - whether airlines or trains - the President indicated that did not seem to be one of his likely choices.

"Closing up every single flight on every single airline, that's a very, very rough decision," Mr. Trump added.

"We have trains going back and forth, and people don't think of trains," the President noted. "It's a very big decision to do that (close them down)."

The issue of restrictions on airline travel comes at a time when the U.S. airline industry is seeing record low traffic, as airlines have grounded passenger jets and reduced flights.

Data released by the Transportation Security Administration shows a gigantic drop in the number of air travelers going through security at America's airports since the virus outbreak began, as many flights are operating with just a few passengers on board.

"When you start closing up entire transportation systems, and then opening them up, that's a very tough thing to do," the President said.

As for when he would make a decision, the President indicated he would not wait too long.

"We will let you know fairly soon," Mr. Trump said Wednesday evening.