Preparations to restart domestic flight operations are in place, says Hardeep Singh Puri

Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said the preparations to restart domestic flight operations are in place and as soon as a decision is taken in this regard the industry will be able to take off immediately.

While talking with a private TV channel, Mr Puri said, the Ministry also foresees changes in the way people would travel with strict adherence to the social distancing norms. He said there will be changes in SOPs related to flight operation.

The announcements came at a time when the country is going through the third phase of the lockdown but the centre has announced certain relaxations in the norms. The commercial flight operations remain suspended since March 24 after the announcement of nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of coronavirus, COVID-19. This industry has been hit severely with the lockdown as several airlines have announced pay cuts for employees. With no flights, certain airlines have also sent their staff on forced leaves.

Mr Puri informed that once the airports would reopen long queues would not be allowed, people shall be asked to reach the airport well before the normal time, whereas baggage entitlement might be reduced and meal services may be stopped.

He said all these things will be finalized after consultation with the airlines. Mr Puri added that a calibrated reopening can happen after the lockdown. The Minister said, during the lockdown, hundreds of flights of Lifeline Udan have carried essential supplies to various parts of the country so far.