It might be a while before you step on an aeroplane – Japan still has not relaxed its entry restrictions – but you may want to start stocking up on face masks. Airlines in Japan have started implementing extra safety measures to avoid the spread of Covid-19 coronavirus. Here are the latest updates to expect the next time you board an aircraft, from face mask requirements to new seating arrangements.
All Nippon Airways (ANA)
To help contain the spread of #COVID19, all passengers are asked to wear a face mask when boarding. If any symptoms appear, consult your physician prior to taking the flight to ensure you are safe to travel. pic.twitter.com/3ugInL4zXR
— @FlyANA_official (@FlyANA_official) May 24, 2020
Japan Airlines (JAL)
The cabin crew for Japan Airlines (JAL) will wear face masks, but passengers are not required to do so. However, seating arrangements will temporarily include allocating empty seats to encourage social distancing.
Jetstar
Jetstar now requires all passengers to wear a face mask – from arrival at the check-in counter area until disembarking the aircraft.
AirAsia
Passengers flying AirAsia are now required to wear a face mask from check-in until claiming checked baggage upon arrival. The airline recommends bringing an extra mask for flights longer than four hours.
Skymark
Skymark does not have a face mask requirement but will temporarily scatter seat arrangements to encourage social distancing.
The Japan Times reports that the International Air Transport Association prefers the mandatory mask policy to the empty seat approach, saying, ‘Mask-wearing by passengers and crew will reduce the already low risk, while avoiding the dramatic cost increases to air travel that onboard social distancing measures would bring.’
Not sure where to buy masks? Try the DIY route or go the extra mile and make a face shield out of plastic.
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