THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said quarantine protocols have now been further adjusted for flight and cabin crew members returning to the Philippines, including those with layovers in the country.
In order to mitigate personnel shortages and avoid significant disruptions to workforce and operations, guidelines or policies are now in place:
Flight and crew members are no longer required to undergo mandatory facility-based quarantine, but shall self-monitor for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
Air Operators must ensure compliance with the relevant public health regulations, policies and established measures.
Transportation must be arranged by the air operator between the aircraft and the crew’s hotel rooms (if needed), while ensuring the observance of physical distancing and other health protocols.
At accommodation, only one crew member will be allowed to stay per hotel room and contact with other crew members is prohibited. Use of hotel common areas are also not allowed.
Suspected COVID-19 positive crew members and those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms during layover or in transit must immediately report to the air operator and seek medical assessment for monitoring. They shall be repatriated by appropriate mode of transportation to their domicile/residence.
For crew members who have been found COVID-19 negative through evaluation in accordance with the said procedures, the air operator may arrange their transportation to their domicile/residence.
According to CAAP Director General Captain Jim Sydiongco, the said protocols have been established in response to DOTr Secretary Art Tugade’s directive to address the current insufficiency of manpower faced by local air operators due to the possibility of flight crew being exposed to COVID-19 positive individuals requiring quarantine. (TSJ)
