New SOPs of flying: Meals allowed on flights, wearing masks a must otherwise, this list for violaters

New Delhi: As the nation heads towards Unlock 4.0, the government is expanding the list of relaxations to bring things back to normal in every segment.

In latest development, the government has revised the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for travelling in domestic as well as international flights.

As per govt directions, passengers can be served pre-packed meals, beverages on domestic flights while international travelers can have access to hot meals and alcohol.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the airlines were flying with bare minimum essentials after it resume service on May 25. No meal was allowed in domestic flights while pre-packed cold meals were allowed in international ones.

Wearing masks has been kept mandatory to prevent any spread of virus. If any passenger refuses to wear a mask in flight can be put on the no-fly list by the airline.

A senior official of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said, “A passenger who refuses to wear a face mask can be put on no-fly list by the airline.”

The ministry also permitted the aircraft operators to let passengers use the in-flight entertainment system on international as well as domestic flights wherever available.

The amended SOP requires cabin crew to wear fresh set of gloves for every meal/beverage service.

Another SOP, applicable for both domestic and abroad service, says “In all classes, tray set-up, plates and cutlery will be disposable. Beverages, including alcoholic, to be served in disposable containers. No pouring service”.
International passenger flights continue to remain suspended since March 23 after Covid-19 outbreak. However, special international flights have been operating under the ”Vande Bharat Mission” and those agreed upon with some countries as per air bubble arrangements.