Disney Parks Will Most Likely Need a Vaccine to Exist to Return to Regular Operations

Disney World’s phased reopening of its theme parks is just under two weeks away and continues to move forward, but Disneyland has postponed its July 17th grand reopening while it awaits guidelines from state officials.

Monorail passing through Disney World’s Epcot

And while Disney hasn’t and won’t be generating anywhere close to the pre-closure levels of revenue in the Parks, Experience, and Products sector for a while, CEO Bob Chapek noted that the company would not reopen any park unless it would ultimately generate profit.

We’ve already shared with you how many guests Disney will need to stay in the black once the theme parks reopen, otherwise, the company could actually lose even more money by reopening. We also know Disney will capping its attendance for the foreseeable future, requiring guests to obtain both a park ticket and reservation using the new Disney Park Pass system before visiting the parks.

Big Thunder Mountain in Disney World

But due to the upward trend in cases, there is growing concern that the theme parks might be reopening too soon. In fact, the Wall Street Journal has just reported the findings of a survey that was conducted earlier this month in which  2,000 U.S. consumers were asked if they would visit a Disney park this year. Almost two-thirds said they would only think about going to Disney if a vaccine existed.

Beach Club Resort in Disney World

There will be a number of new health and safety procedures implemented at the theme parks upon their reopening, including limited capacity, modified attractions and entertainment offeringsrequired face coverings for guests and Cast Members, mandatory temperature screenings to enter, increased sanitation, social distancing markers, and more. But despite Disney’s best efforts to keep its guests and Cast Members safe, it seems the majority agree that until there’s a vaccine, the parks will not be able to reach a normal pre-closures attendance level making Disney’s road to financial recovery even longer.

Would you visit the Disney parks before a vaccine? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.