LIST: New PH aviation rules amid relaxed coronavirus lockdown

MANILA, Philippines — The government on Thursday released a new set of aviation protocols in light of its decision to allow the resumption of domestic travel operations in the country.

According to presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, passengers and airport and airline workers will have to follow strict health measures to prevent COVID-19 infection.

In his regular press briefing, Roque bared the following new guidelines prepared by the Department of Transportation:

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

-mandatory wearing of face masks

-installation and provision of handwashing/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-on 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

-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 onboard their respective vehicles