IATA: 67 per cent of travellers say borders should open

AN INTERNATIONAL AIR TRANSPORT ASSOCIATION (IATA) survey has revealed travellers are increasingly frustrated with COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Of the 4,700 respondents in 11 markets surveyed in September, 67 per cent felt most country borders should be opened, an increase of 12 per cent from the June 2021 survey.

Additionally, 64 per cent felt that border closures are unnecessary and have not been effective in containing the virus, an increase of 11 per cent, while 73 per cent said that their quality of life is suffering as a result of the restrictions – up six per cent from June.

Respondents supported the removal of quarantine if a person had tested negative for COVID-19 (73 per cent), or if a person had been vaccinated (71 per cent).

Additionally, 80 per cent agreed that vaccinated people should be able to travel freely by air, though two-thirds feel that it is wrong to restrict travel to just those who have been double jabbed. More than 80 per cent believe that testing before air travel should be an alternative for those who do not have access to vaccination.

Nonetheless, 75 per cent believe that the cost of testing is a significant barrier to travel, and 80 per cent think that governments should bear the cost of testing.

The survey also showed that, while 86 per cent felt safe on board due to COVID-19 measures, people were still confused by the COVID-related travel rules and requirements.