IATA Traveler Survey Reveals COVID-19 Concerns

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released public opinion research showing the willingness to travel being tempered by concerns over the risks of catching COVID-19 during air travel. The industry’s re-start plans address passenger’s main concerns.

• Travelers are taking precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19 with 77% saying that they are washing their hands more frequently, 71% avoiding large meetings and 67% having worn a facemask in public
• Some 58% of those surveyed said that they have avoided air travel, with 33% suggesting that they will avoid travel in future as a continued measure to reduce the risk of catching COVID-19
• Travelers identified their top three concerns as follows:
  • At the airport: Being in a crowded bus/train on the way to the aircraft (59%) , Queuing at check-in/security/border control or boarding (42%), Using airport restrooms/toilet facilities (38%)
  • On board aircraft: Sitting next to someone who might be infected (65%), Using restrooms/toilet facilities (42%),
    Breathing the air on the plane (37%)
• When asked to rank the top three measures that would make them feel safer, 37% cited COVID-19 screening at departure airports, 34% agreed with mandatory wearing of facemasks and 33% noted social distancing measures on aircraft
• Passengers themselves displayed a willingness to play a role in keeping flying safe by;
  • Undergoing temperature checks (43%)
  • Wearing a mask during travel (42%)
  • Checking-in online to minimize interactions at the airport (40%)
  • Taking a COVID-19 test prior to travel (39%)
  • Sanitizing their seating area (38%).
• A majority of travelers surveyed plan to return to travel to see family and friends (57%), to vacation (56%) or to do business (55%) as soon as possible after the pandemic subsides