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The chief executive of Australian airline Qantas Airways Ltd. has proposed that once the coronavirus vaccine is widely available, passengers on international flights will need to show proof that they are vaccinated before traveling.
Speaking to Australia’s Nine Network on Monday, Alan Joyce said an electronic “vaccination passport” would be a “necessity” for travelers entering or leaving Australia.
A Qantas commercial jet takes off at Sydney Airport in March 2019 (Getty / Kyodo).
“We are looking to change our terms and conditions to tell international travelers that we will ask people to get vaccinated before they can get on the plane,” Joyce said.
The CEO said it is unclear whether a similar requirement would be necessary for domestic travel.
Since March, Australia has effectively closed its borders to all international travel, and only citizens and permanent residents are allowed to land repatriation flights. All international arrivals to Australia must undergo a 14-day quarantine.
The nation has successfully dealt with its virus outbreaks, particularly in the state of Victoria, and has now seen most restrictions lifted across the country, including several internal border closures.
In light of multiple successful vaccine trials, Health Minister Greg Hunt said on Tuesday that the government aims to distribute the first vaccines in March, with healthcare workers and the elderly as a priority.
“Our expectation is that all Australians who seek it will receive a free vaccine, on a voluntary basis, during the course of 2021,” he said.
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