‘Fantasy Flight’ in Taiwan Offers Air Travel Experience Amid Coronavirus Lockdowns—Without Actually Leaving Airport

(TAIPEI, Taiwan) — Like almost every region, Taiwan has been hit hard by restrictions on international travel imposed because of the coronavirus. Some residents have found comfort in boarding a flight that didn’t take off, just to revisit some memories and plan for the day when they can fly again. The fantasy flight was organized by Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Administration to raise awareness of coronavirus prevention and control procedures to follow when passing through customs and boarding a plane at Taipei International Airport. Participants won a lucky draw held online, with each allowed to bring a guest, putting the total number who boarded at 66. As with normal flights, they had to check in, obtain boarding passes and go through immigration and security procedures before being allowed on the plane. Read more: Some COVID-19 Restrictions Are Being Lifted. But Is It Safe to Travel? “People who want to fly abroad have long been suffering,” said Wang Chih-ching, deputy director of the airport. The event and the publicity generated will help future travelers better prepare for when international flights resume in earnest, Wang said. The online draw drew 10,000 entries. After taking their seats, the passengers — all wearing masks — were served food and drinks, participated in a pop quiz and were treated to a good luck salute from fire engines that sprayed water. After they exited without the plane having left the ground, passengers were ...
Source: TIME: Health - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Uncategorized COVID-19 News Desk Taiwan wire Source Type: news