Asia-Pacific countries begin to ease travel bans

As coronavirus cases slow in the Asia-Pacific region, countries are hoping to revive their economies.

For the likes of Singapore, Australia and Japan, that includes the easing of some international travel restrictions.

Passenger numbers in the region were down around 97% in August.

A Singapore-Indonesia deal announced on Monday (Oct 12) is for essential business and official travel.

But it will require an application and COVID-19 swab tests both before and after travel.

Singapore has already established similar agreements with China, South Korea, Japan, and Malaysia.

It's also allowing general visitors from New Zealand, Brunei, Vietnam and most of Australia.

New Zealanders will be able to travel to some parts of Australia starting on Friday (October 16) without quarantining.

But New Zealanders who return from Australia must quarantine for two weeks under government supervision.

And that will cost around $2,000 for the first person and more for additional family members.

New Zealand has said it does not plan open its borders to Australians for now.

Australia said on Sunday (October 11) that it is in talks with Japan, South Korea, and Singapore on reopening travel as infections ease.

Business travel is also reportedly to be allowed between Japan and Vietnam.

Meanwhile Japanese media reports say it will soon lift bans on travel to China and 11 other countries and regions.

But while all these moves may be meant to get people flying again, the increased testing and insurance requirements will put many off.

Some analysts say that means the deals offer only limited hope for airlines and the battered tourism industry.