Pakistan issues new virus SOPs for domestic, international flights

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Pakistan has issued new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for passengers travelling by domestic and international flights. 

In the new SOPs, CAA has directed the airlines to strictly enforce the policy on social distancing and SOPs. The new SOPs say there will be no protocol for any passenger at any airport of the country. The CAA director for air transport has issued a notification in this regard. 

According to the notification, passengers can be dropped only outside the departure lounge. Every plane will be disinfected before the flight. Air hostesses will wear personal protection kits, surgical masks and gloves onboard all flights. On-flight meals for passengers will be packed properly and served carefully. Air hostesses and crew members will disinfect themselves and washroom after using the facility. 

Phone numbers and data of all passengers will be noted down during the flight. All used safety equipment will be disposed of on completion of the flight. The new SOPs will remain applicable to all chartered and private flights from September 2 to October 31. All airlines, aircraft operators and ground handling agents will ensure compliance with these SOPs, the notification concludes.