[Golf Topic] PGA Tour's 'COVID-19 Prevention Measures'... "Dedicated Player Aircraft Deployed"

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] ○..."Dedicated aircraft for players deployed."

This is the preventive measure against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) by the U.S. Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) Tour. Through the recently distributed 'COVID-19' prevention guidelines for players, it was introduced that "a large passenger plane will be rented to transport players and caddies." The PGA Tour was shut down immediately after the first round of The Players Championship, known as the '5th Major,' in March, and remains temporarily closed. The 2020 season will resume starting June 11 with the Charles Schwab Challenge.

While world stars use private jets to travel to tournaments, many still take commercial flights. This is why the PGA Tour decided to operate dedicated flights. Although the aircraft can accommodate over 300 passengers, only 170 will be boarded to maintain social distancing. The airfare is $600 per person, and reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. The Korn Ferry (2nd tier) Tour and the Champions (Senior) Tour are also preparing dedicated flights. Considering the lower income of the Korn Ferry Tour, their fare has been reduced to $300.