In response to COVID-19, Cathay Pacific announced that from Friday (15th May), all passengers will be required to wear face masks. The airline stated that this new requirement is for the added protection of passengers and employees in situations where physical distancing can not be maintained.

Face coverings to be worn on all flights

Following IATA's recommendation that passengers and crew should wear face masks on flights, Hong Kong's flag carrier Cathay Pacific has become the latest airline to make face coverings mandatory for air travel.

Passengers have been told they are now required to wear face masks in situations where a physical distance of two meters can not be maintained. This includes onboard, at check-in, in lounges, and during boarding and disembarkation.

It has also been recommended that passengers follow this advice in areas that receive high traffic, such as security lines and baggage collection areas.

The airline said that passengers unable to tolerate a face mask are exempt from this requirement, including children under the age of six.

Passengers will be required to provide their face coverings. Cathay Pacific said that 'all types on face masks and coverings are suitable.'  A link was provided on how to make one at home on its website.

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Air travelers may have to get used to longer queues at airports. Photo: Getty Images

Cathay Pacific introduces several precautionary measures

Cathay Pacific has also announced several other steps that it is taking to ensure the well-being of passengers.

All passengers will have their temperature taken when arriving, departing and transiting through Hong Kong International Airport. Temperatures will also be checked on passengers boarding in the US and the UK. Compulsory health declaration forms have also been introduced for passengers arriving in Hong Kong.

Cathay Pacific has also modified its inflight service. Trolley services have been suspended in first and business class, with meals being served on a single tray. In premium economy and economy class, snack packs and hot meal service are now being provided. Hot towels, pillows, blankets, magazines, and inflight duty-free sales have also been temporarily suspended.

The airline further stated that the aircraft are also thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between each flight.

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Cathay Pacific suffered a 99.1% drop in passengers in June. Photo: Getty Images

Cathay Pacific has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic

Cathay Pacific's announcement to make face masks mandatory comes as airlines are trying to reassure passengers that it is safe to travel. Several airlines are implementing safety measures as they start to think about resuming flight operations.

Hong Kong's flag carrier has been one of the hardest-hit airlines. The airline has reduced its flying capacity by 97% due to several travel restrictions and a drop in travel demand because of the current pandemic. During April and May, the carrier was operating only three flights a week to 12 cities. 

On 28th April, Cathay Pacific said it intends to increase its capacity from 3% to 5% between 21st June and 30th June.

Do you think airlines are taking adequate precautions for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic? Let us know in the comments.