As the Philippines prepares for the general community quarantine in low-risk areas, it’s likely that domestic flights will resume in the country. Meanwhile, special flights between Manila and key overseas destinations will continue to serve stranded Filipinos and foreigners amid the pandemic. With these, the new Philippine Airlines safety measures will surely come in handy.
On 2 May 2020, the country’s flag carrier announced that they’ve added more safety measures to their flights. This is to ensure passengers that they will have a “healthy, safe, and clean environment” on their next trip with Philippine Airlines. From booking to arrival, here are the updated Philippine Airlines safety measures you can expect.
Booking
- Thermal scans at ticket offices
- Managed social distancing
- Transparent barriers at the counters
- PAL staff wearing face masks
- No mask, no entry for all visitors
Checking in
- Face mask required for all flights
- Only small personal items up to 2kg allowed for carry-on (additional 5kg for your Free Baggage Allowance)
- Bring own sanitisers and onboard travel essentials
- Online check-in encouraged
- Early arrival at the airport
- Thermal scans at airport entrances
- Social distancing at check-in counter area
- Sanitisers available
- PAL staff wearing masks and gloves
- Roaming airport staff to monitor social distancing compliance
Pre-departure at Mabuhay Lounge
- Sanitising floor mat before entering the lounge
- Social distancing for lounge seating areas
- Sanitisers available
- Staff wearing protective gear
- Meals in sealed packaging
- Beverage on demand
Boarding
- Social distancing at boarding gates and onboard bus shuttles
- Sanitisers available
- PAL staff wearing masks and gloves
- Roaming airport staff to monitor social distancing compliance
- Sanitising floor mat in key airports before entering the aircraft
In-flight
- Rigorous cabin cleaning and disinfection
- Crew in full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Simplified meal or snack service
- Social distancing cabin seating options
- HEPA filters and fresh cabin air to protect against viruses
Arrival
- Face masks required for all passengers
- Sanitising floor mats in key airports upon deplaning
- Health locator forms, health documents, and other required documents of the destination country given to all passengers
- Sanitisers available
- Baggage pushcart handles disinfected periodically
- Roaming airport staff to monitor social distancing compliance
Flying for essential travels during the community quarantine? These Philippine Airlines safety measures ought to make your journey easier and more secure. As a passenger, remember to do your part by wearing masks, bringing sanitisers, and following social distancing protocols at all times. If feeling ill, avoid flying at all costs for your and others’ sake.
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Featured image credit: Philippine Airlines | Official website.
