May 22 (NHK) - Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways will make it mandatory for passengers to wear a mask aboard planes and at the airport, starting in June.
The decision is part of ANA's efforts to step up anti-coronavirus measures in anticipation of a gradual return of passengers.
From June 1, everyone will be required to wear a mask at all times on planes and at the airport, including at security checkpoints and boarding gates.
The airline says it may deny boarding to people not wearing a mask or showing symptoms of illness, including fever. Exceptions will be made for small children and certain particular cases.
Other special measures include disinfecting the entire plane before each departure on international flights.
For domestic flights, toilets will be disinfected before each departure, while armrests and tables will be sanitized once a day.
ANA says it will ask passengers to disinfect their hands before boarding. Disinfectant wipes will also be available upon request.
The airline has cut both domestic and international flights by nearly 90 percent. But passenger numbers are expected to increase as the state of emergency is gradually lifted across Japan.
Current guidelines set by industry associations of airlines and airport operators only request, but do not impose, the use of face masks.
