AAI Issues SOP For Domestic Flights’ Resumption From 25 May; Aarogya Setu Mandatory Except For Kids Below 14 

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has released the standard operating procedure (SOP) to all airport operators on Wednesday ahead of the recommencement of domestic flights from 25 May.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had announced on Wednesday (20 May) that domestic flight services would resume from 25 May onward in a calibrated manner.

"All airports and air carriers are being informed to be ready for operations from 25 May. Standard operating procedures for passenger movement are also being separately issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation," Puri tweeted.

According to the SOP, all passengers must have the Aarogya Setu app on their mobile phones which has to be verified by CISF or airport staff at the entry gate. However, Aarogya Setu app is not mandatory for children below 14 years of age.

All passengers will have to wear protective gear such as gloves and masks, as per the SoPs.

"Passengers shall compulsorily walk through screening zone for thermal screening at a designated place in the city side before entering the terminal building," the AAI stated in the guidelines.

The AAI manages more than 100 airports across the country. The major airports in the country including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad are managed by private companies.

SOP issued by AAI

• Airport operators must make appropriate arrangements for sanitisation of a passenger's baggage before his or her entry into the terminal building, said the SOP, dated 20 May.
• Passengers are supposed to reach the airport 2 hours in advance. Passengers who have departure in the next four hours will be allowed inside the Terminal.
• Passengers are required to pass through the screening zone for thermal screening before entering the terminal.
• The use of trolleys will be discouraged and provided for genuine reasons only on request.
• Airport operators to make proper arrangement for sanitisation of baggage.
• All entry gates of the terminal shall be opened to avoid crowding.
• Mats/carpets soaked with bleach (sodium hydrochloride) will be placed at the entrance to disinfect shoes.
• Wheelchairs will have to be sanitised and help staff will be in full protective gear.
• Sufficient staff is to be deployed to ensure social distancing at ticket counters, conveyor belts, and at any such place where people can gather.
• Social distancing is to be maintained in the seating arrangement as well.