Following the discovery of several cases of Covid-19 on flights from Bangkok to Phuket, disease prevention measures for air passengers have indeed been tightened. After passengers on seven flights operated by three different airlines tested positive for the virus, Thailand's Civil Aviation Authority issued new guidance for airlines and passengers. The Covid-19 Situation Administration Centre in Phuket has ordered airlines to contact other passengers and tell them to get tested and self-isolate.
A report published in Nation Thailand, the following measures are in effect for air travel.
1.Airlines should limit services between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. to reduce the impact on passengers travelling between the airport and their accommodation and to comply with public transport.
2. Carriers must inform passengers and have the appropriate care in the event of flight changes, cancellations, or consolidation, Ministry of Transport laws said.
3. At airports, all passengers must go rigorous screening and wear face masks at all times. The temperature of the person being checked must be measured with an infrared thermometer that does not come into contact with the person's body. Anyone who does not wear a mask or has a temperature of more than 37.3 degrees Celsius will be prohibited from entering the airport area.
4. Using an infrared thermometer, the passenger's body temperature must be taken again before boarding the aircraft, and passengers will be tested again before leaving the destination airport. If a temperature higher than 37.3 degrees Celsius is recorded or a passenger has respiratory symptoms, symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny nose, or shortness of breath, airport officials must notify local health officials immediately.
5. To avoid congestion, airlines must consider the appropriate seating arrangement in the aircraft for the number of passengers on each flight, taking into account social distancing.
6. Passengers must alert of any possible risk by airport authorities and airlines. Confirmed patients or high-risk must refrain from traveling. They may face punishment under the Communicable Diseases Act if they violate this law.