MoCA seeks suggestions to formulate an SOP ahead of domestic flights resumption

In a sign that domestic passenger flight operations might resume soon, the Ministry of Civil Aviation sought suggestions to formulate a Standard Operating Protocol from all the airlines and airport operators. These suggestions were received by the Ministry on Tuesday. As per the suggestions, people above 80 years of age might be barred from travelling in the first phase of the resumption of domestic flights. The cabin baggage can be prohibited while check-in baggage shall be restricted to one piece of less than 20 kg. Moreover, passengers and staff showing COVID-19 symptoms won't be allowed to enter the airport terminal building if the suggestions are implemented. In India, domestic passenger flight operations have been suspended since end-March. 

Read: Flights May Follow Railways Cautious Resumption Along Key Routes; Decision Likely Soon

Read the suggestions for the SOP here: 

Read: Five Air India Pilots Test Positive For COVID-19; All Had Flown Cargo Flights To China

Vande Bharat Mission 

Currently, there are 70,756 confirmed novel coronavirus cases in the country out of which 22,455 patients have recovered while 2,293 deaths have been reported. India commenced the Vande Bharat Mission from May 7 to evacuate Indians stranded abroad from countries such as the USA, the UK, Bangladesh, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Philippines, UAE and Malaysia. So far, 6037 persons have been flown back to India in 31 inbound flights operated by Air India and Air India Express in 5 days.

The evacuation mission has strictly adhered to the hygiene protocol laid down by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Centre. Overall, it is expected that 14,800 Indians shall be repatriated via a total of 64 flights. As per sources, the second phase of the Vande Bharat Mission will commence on May 16 to rescue Indians from 31 countries including Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, France, Ukraine, Armenia, Kuwait, Ireland. 

Read: SpiceJet Operates Two Cargo Flights To Cambodia Carrying 25 Tonnes Of Medical Supplies

Read: Coronavirus Live Updates: PM Modi To Address Nation At 8PM Today, Cases At 70,756