Palace releases new aviation protocols after easing COVID-19 restrictions

Malacañang on Thursday released the new aviation protocols after local airlines have been allowed to resume operations this month due to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

The guidelines prepared by the Department of Transportation are the following:

Implementation of universal and mandatory safety measures shall be observed in all airport facilities and while on board the aircraft

• mandatory wearing of face masks
• installation and provision of hand washing/sanitizing station and foot baths
• mandatory physical and social distancing in all public spaces
• mandatory temperature checks in all entrances
• placement of on-site signages and online information materials on health protocols

Passenger boarding and inflight protocols

• inflight announcements (cabin and health security)
• announcement on no queuing outside lavatories
• cabin crew shall guide passengers with carry bags with minimum physical contact
• cabin crew shall distribute alcohol and wipes to all passengers
• offer simplified meal service and provide only individually sealed bottles

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• strict implementation of brisk cabin presence and of no congregations on board

Social distancing on board when allowed or recommended

• physical distancing among passengers
• family members and individuals traveling together can be seated next to each other
• if physical distancing cannot be guaranteed, passengers and crew should adhere at all times to all the other preventive measures (i.e. strict hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, wear a face mask)

Disembarkation

• commence passenger disembarkation procedures
• zone deplaning announcement to observe physical distancing
• all arriving passengers are required to fill-out Health Declaration and Passenger Locator forms
• ensure social distancing at the baggage carousel
• pick up of arriving passengers shall be limited to 3 minutes
• remind transport concessionaires to ensure physical distancing on board their respective vehicles

— RSJ, GMA News