Due to the Rapid Spread of COVID-19, Airbnb Prohibits Check-ins for Groups of 16 or More

Airbnb Announces New Party Policy for Accommodation Sharing
Indefinitely Effective Until Further Notice
Legal Action Possible for Violations

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Accommodation sharing company Airbnb has announced a new policy banning parties at all its affiliated accommodations worldwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to CNBC on the 20th (local time), Airbnb stated in a press release, "From now on, all reservations made through Airbnb will prohibit parties," adding, "This will continue indefinitely until further notice."

This move by Airbnb comes as COVID-19 cases have recently resurged. As governments around the world have implemented shutdown measures for restaurants, bars, and clubs to prevent the spread of COVID-19, more people have been enjoying house parties instead.

Airbnb said, "Some people have moved bars and clubs into their homes, and sometimes this has happened on our platform as well."

In fact, in July, a party involving about 700 people without masks was held at an Airbnb accommodation in New Jersey, USA, causing controversy. At that time, New Jersey was restricting large gatherings to prevent the spread of COVID-19. All the organizers of the party were prosecuted, and New Jersey health authorities identified at least 65 confirmed cases related to the party.

Ultimately, Airbnb removed the problematic accommodation from its reservation listings.

Airbnb warned, "Our new regulation is to prevent Airbnb accommodations from being misused as party venues, and we will not hesitate to take legal action against customers who do not comply."

Additionally, Airbnb urged guests to comply with COVID-19 related regulations mandated by the local governments where each accommodation is located to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Airbnb stated, "The COVID-19 pandemic has made social distancing an essential element for public health and responsible travel. We do not tolerate irresponsible behavior such as parties, and engaging in or allowing such acts does not belong on our platform."

Meanwhile, Airbnb has been strengthening its party-related regulations since last year after an incident where three people were shot and killed at a party held at an Airbnb accommodation in Sacramento, California. It already prohibits parties at 73% of its accommodations worldwide through its own regulations.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.