TOKYO: Japanese air carriers are trying hard to let people know that they can fly safely on a plane, which is often viewed as a confined and narrow space prone to spreading coronavirus infections.

Domestic flights, which were reduced greatly due to the viral epidemic, started to resume gradually in Japan after the government completely lifted its state of emergency over the virus crisis in late May. Carriers are now hoping to ease anxieties among potential passengers and bring them back on board.

The Scheduled Airlines Association of Japan, an organization with members across the Japanese airline industry, created a video about safety measures taken by carriers for preventing infections aboard planes.

It shows that the air in the cabin is completely renewed every three minutes or so and disinfection is being carried out regularly.

In the video, the association requests passengers to use online check-in, automated check-in and baggage drop machines to reduce interpersonal contact, in addition to using hand sanitizers and taking other steps to reduce infection risks.

Airlines are also ramping up their own measures to prevent infections. All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines now require passengers to wear masks when on board and have their cabin crew offer in-flight services on a reduced scale.

"Thanks to aircraft capabilities and cooperation from customers, we assure everyone can feel safe about taking planes," said Hiroshi Otsuka, a senior official of the association.

JAL is introducing 110 flights over a 14-day period through June 15 on a temporary basis to meet a recovery in demand for domestic flights.

Skymark Airlines' flight reduction rate will be 58 percent in the week through June 18, recovering from the 81 percent cut during the preceding 11 days.

On the other hand, Japanese carriers are still suspending most of their flights on international routes amid travel restrictions worldwide.

JIJI Press