Opinions of Thai people on Policy Requiring Face Masks during Air Travel

Abstract

          The overall trend of Covid-19 epidemic situation continues to improve. Many airlines have indicated that they will no longer enforce the face mask requirement while traveling. However, Thailand does not have a policy on easing the restrictions on wearing a face mask in the public places.The objectives of this study were 1) to examine the opinions of Thai people on the prevention of infection during air travel, and 2) to examine the opinions of Thai people considering the policy requiring face mask during air travel. A total of 423 respondents completed the survey.

           The research found that 1) the majority of respondents (78 percent) expressed “somewhat” to “extremely concerned” about the risk of COVID-19 infection while traveling by air. 2) Most respondents (80 percent) expressed “moderately important” to “extremely important” about the importance of preventing infections and infectious diseases during air travel. 3) Most respondents (40 percent) expressed “somewhat” concerns about COVID-19 infection while traveling by air. 4) Most respondents (67 percent) supported the policy of wearing face masks throughout the trip. 5) Most respondents (94 percent) would continue to wear face masks during air travel, even though this mandate may be set as optional in the future.