Today, (11th June 2020) The Department for Transport has
published new aviation guidance, setting out measures operators
should put in place to protect staff and passengers.
The guidance, produced by the government’s International
Aviation Taskforce, in collaboration with the industry, also
provides advice for passengers on how to travel safely and on
how to follow social distancing measures at each stage of their
journey.
The guidance focuses extensively on the health and safety of
passengers and staff and in line with international best
practice, is the culmination of an extensive programme of
engagement between the Government, aviation industry and public
health experts. It outlines a framework for the industry to
operate from once travel restrictions are lifted and when it is
safe to do so, helping to restore jobs, trade, and
opportunities for travel.
The guidance to passengers covers all aspects of the travel
experience, from checking the public health requirements before
booking a flight, to navigating the airport safely and boarding
the flight or leaving the airport.
Transport Secretary, , said:
“Today’s guidance is a positive next step towards ensuring
a safer and more sustainable aviation sector.”
“The Government’s advice currently remains to avoid all
non-essential travel, but today we are taking the necessary
steps to ensure a framework is in place for the aviation
industry to bounce back when it is safe for restrictions on
travel to be lifted.”
Tim Hawkins, Chief Strategy Officer at MAG,
said:
“This new guidance provides the basis for the restart and
recovery of the UK aviation industry – it offers clear
information for us, our passengers and our airlines on the
steps needed to create a safe travel experience.
“The guidance is the result of strong collaboration between
Government and the aviation industry, drawing on advice from
independent medical and scientific experts who have looked
specifically at what safety measures are needed at each stage
of the travel process.
“With similar protocols being adopted in other countries,
and a targeted approach to reopening travel to low-risk
countries, we will have the elements in place to get our
economy moving again and protect jobs throughout the whole
aviation supply chain.”
Practical advice includes wearing face coverings when in the
airport, washing hands regularly after touching any surfaces,
checking in all baggage including hand luggage, and remaining
seated as much as possible during the flight.
The guidance to operators will also support staff by promoting
safe practices and workplaces. This includes extensive cleaning
of aircraft, increasing the availability of handwashing and
hand sanitiser facilities, reducing face-to-face interactions
with passengers, and introducing protocols for symptomatic
passengers and staff.
Government support for the aviation industry to date has
provided an unprecedented package of measures, including a Bank
of England scheme for firms to raise capital, Time to Pay
flexibilities with tax bills, financial support for employees,
and the formation of the International Aviation Taskforce – a
collaborative approach between Government and the aviation
industry – which has been leading on work necessary to plan for
the restart and recovery of the sector.
