THE Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) issued new quarantine protocols for returning flight and crew members who may contract COVID-19.
Under the guidelines contained in CAAP’s Memorandum Circular Number 06-2022 and 07-2022, the n ew protocols will cover not just flight and cabin crew members overseas but also those who are still in the country while waiting for their next travel assignment.
Flight and crew members will no longer be required or under obligation to undergo mandatory facility-based quarantine upon their return to the country but will just be instructed to conduct self monitoring for any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
On the other hand, the airline companies or airline operators must ensure compliance with health regulations, policies and other necessary guidelines.
Included in the order is to ensure smooth transportation of their employees who may be afflicted with COVID-19, from their aircraft to their hotel rooms if needed while ensuring strict adherence to minimum health protocols.
Only one crew member will be allowed to use a hotel room and any contact with other sick crew members, while the use of common areas in a hotel is strictly prohibited.
Suspected COVID-19 crew members, including those with symptoms while waiting for their next travel or are currently traveling, must report immediately to their air operator for proper assistance.
Meanwhile, for crew members who will test negative of COVID-19, must be transported by their air operator to their residence.
According to CAAP Director General Jim Sydiongco, the protocol was developed in compliance with the directive of the Department of Transportation to provide solutions to the lack of manpower that airline companies currently face since many crew members who got sick due to COVID-19.