As Indonesia progresses into the transitional phase of the Covid-19 endemic, the Ministry of Transportation’s Directorate General of Air Transportation (Kemenhub) has formally implemented revisions to the travel requirements for air transportation. These changes are outlined in Circular Letter No. 16/2023, which focuses on the health protocols for air travelers during this transitional period.
According to M. Kristi Endah Murni, the Director General of Air Transportation, the updated regulations were put into effect on June 9, 2023, with the intention of safeguarding the well-being of travelers using air transport.
Murni emphasizes the importance of widespread dissemination of these new guidelines to users of air transportation, highlighting the need for increased awareness and compliance with the established rules.
Under the provisions of this circular letter, individuals who are in good health and not at risk of contracting Covid-19 are granted the flexibility to forgo wearing masks during their travel. Moreover, passengers are strongly encouraged to continue their Covid-19 vaccination, including receiving the second booster dose or the fourth dose, particularly if they belong to high-risk groups susceptible to the transmission of the virus.
Murni stresses that it is crucial for airline operators to prioritize the protection of the public by implementing preventive and promotional measures aimed at controlling the spread of Covid-19. These measures encompass close monitoring, guidance, regulation, and enforcement of health protocols to effectively manage the transmission of the virus.
Additionally, passengers are advised to carry hand sanitizers and maintain regular hand hygiene by washing their hands with soap and running water, especially after touching commonly used objects.
For individuals who are unwell or at risk of contracting or transmitting Covid-19, it is recommended to maintain physical distancing and avoid crowded places as preventive measures against the spread of the virus. Furthermore, the use of the SATUSEHAT application is encouraged to enable individuals to monitor their personal health status effectively.
The revised travel requirements exemplify proactive efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of air travelers while mitigating the risk of Covid-19 transmission. All stakeholders, including passengers and airline operators, are strongly urged to adhere to these regulations and actively contribute to the collective endeavor of overcoming the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic.
By implementing these comprehensive measures, the Directorate General of Air Transportation seeks to provide a secure and conducive environment for air travel, instilling confidence among passengers and industry stakeholders alike. Continuous vigilance, strict adherence to health protocols, and effective collaboration are essential to navigate the transitional phase and pave the way for a resilient and sustainable aviation sector in the post-pandemic era.
