QANTAS OPENS UP SA ROUTE AGAIN, BUT TRAVELLERS EXPECTED TO GET VACCINE

The Australian airways carrier, Qantas, has announced that it will reinstate its popular route between South Africa and Australia on 1 July 2021. While many travellers are excited about the announcement, it comes with a strict requirement.

International travellers will have to get the COVID-19 vaccine before getting on board a Qantas flight.

While the routes were only meant to open in November 2021 as originally planned, the carrier announced its earlier re-opening of the route in a statement yesterday. The carrier’s decision was based on the earlier than anticipated readiness of the vaccination.

Business Insider reports that, even though local travellers within Australia are not currently required to get the vaccination while travelling within the country itself, those leaving the country or planning on entering the country will be required to do so.

South Africa’s acquisition of the vaccine has been full of drama, and the country may not get it in time for locals to get on board a Qantas flight.

International travel within the coming months is also a worry as daily infections are on the rise in South Africa. The dramatic incline has seen the country’s alert level going from level 1 to level 3 shortly before the new year, with announcements of further restrictions expected to happen soon.

Image credit: Airways Magazine