Taitung County government mandates masks for visitors taking hot air balloon tethered rides and free flights

In light of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and the trend of increasing cases, and the Central Epidemic Command Center's announcement that masks should be worn in 8 major categories of venues, in response to the central government's latest regulations, Taitung County - stated that starting from the 10th, people taking hot air balloon tethered experience rides and free flights must wear masks throughout the entire process; those who do not wear masks will be refused ticket purchase and boarding. At the event site, staff also continuously urge people participating in and watching the hot air balloon carnival activities to wear masks, and call on the public to cooperate with relevant epidemic prevention measures, implementing the new normal life movement of wearing masks and washing hands frequently.

The Taitung County - Transportation and Tourism Development Department stated that this year's Taiwan Hot Air Balloon Carnival has attracted more than 600,000 visits since it started on July 11. Although this Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Carnival was postponed due to the impact of the epidemic, in the face of this event, various epidemic prevention measures are still adopted under strict management principles. In addition to implementing the real-name (linked) system for ticket purchase and registration for the hot air balloon tethered experience, foreign pilots are also required to undergo 14 days of home quarantine and self-paid screening in accordance with regulations to safeguard the health and safety of participating members of the public.

The Transportation and Tourism Development Department pointed out that on the first morning of implementation, there were nearly 10,000 visitors at Luye Highland. Although some visitors still did not wear masks, they were willing to comply with the outdoor 1-meter social distancing rule. As for visitors participating in hot air balloon tethered rides and free flights, all wore masks throughout the entire process in accordance with regulations, and said very happily that for their own and others' health, they were happy to take the ride and willing to wear masks on their own.