IATA reported (21-Jul-2021) a survey of 4700 travellers in 11 markets globally conducted in Jun-2021 found most air travellers are confident about the safety of air travel and support mask-wearing in the near-term. However, a majority are also frustrated with the "hassle factor" around COVID-19 protocols. The survey found:
- 85% believe aircraft are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected;
- 65% agree the air on an aircraft is as clean as an operating room;
Among those who have travelled since Jun-2020, 86% felt safe onboard owing to COVID-19 measures:
- 89% believe protective measures are well implemented;
- 90% believe airline personnel do a good job of enforcing the measures;
Passengers strongly support mask wearing onboard (83%) and strict enforcement of mask rules (86%), but a majority also believe the mask requirement should be ended as soon as possible. At the same time, participants admit that they struggle with the COVID-related rules and requirements and that this impacts their willingness to travel:
- 70% thought the rules and the accompanying paperwork were a challenge to understand;
- 67% saw arranging testing as a hassle;
- 89% agreed governments must standardise vaccinations/testing certifications. [more - original PR]