As the woes of the travel and tourism industries continue during this pandemic, the Australian government said that they are opening their international borders by November 2021. This “step forward” was lauded by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
“This is a step forward. But more can still be done. The announcement of the November timeline and the removal of the international arrival caps are positive steps forward. The reduction of quarantine period and introduction of home quarantine for vaccinated Australians are also steps in the right direction. We welcome the use of rapid antigen tests for international travel,” according to Philip Goh, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific.
IATA also said that international travel recovery will be muted and restrained when quarantine remains.
It may be recalled that the US, Canada, and European states have lifted quarantine requirements for international arrivals, and the IATA stressed that Australia needs to work towards a similar approach.
“Ultimately, the need to quarantine should be removed for those who are vaccinated and who test negative prior to departure for Australia. We urge the Australian government to follow guidance from WHO on a risk-based approach. This includes relaxing measures and/or quarantine requirements for travelers who are fully vaccinated. And to provide alternatives for unvaccinated individuals through testing,” IATA said in a statement.
“Airlines will also need more details if this is to be operationalized in November. Hence it is essential that the Australian government steps up its engagement with the aviation sector, to help airlines prepare for the safe and efficient re-opening of Australia’s borders,” IATA added.