DESPITE ROLL OUT PRECAUTIONS, NIGERIAN INTERNATIONAL AIRSPACE REMAINED SHUT.

Hope for stranded travelers as the Nigerian aviation body (NCAA) released COVID-19 Pandemic Public Health Protocols for Nigerian crew operating international flights. The guidelines is t take necessary measures upon reopening Nigerian airspace.

In preparatory to the reopening, flight crew must now wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and observe Infection, Prevention and Control (IPC) measures for the duration of the flight.

The statement further included that the flight crew will not be quarantined but undergo mandatory testing for COVID-19 every 14 days at cost to the Air Operator upon return to Nigeria as flight crew members who test positive for COVID-19 will be admitted into treatment center for further management.

In a referenced letter of 27th of May 2020NCAA/DG/AIR/11/16/120, by the Aviation Director General Captain Musa S. Nuhu, to all operators, airports and other service providers, the new protocol approved by Federal Ministry of Health replaces the current practice where Nigerian based flight crew members who operate international flights are quarantined for 14 days upon their return to Nigeria.

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Nigeria based Airlines/Aircrew wishing to conduct flight operations outside the country shall be required to comply with ensuring orientation and sensitization of crew on Infection, Prevention and Control (IPC) measures on training and guidance from public health authorities, adequate stock of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), minimum 70% alcohol-based hand sanitizers and Universal Precaution Kits (UPK) on board aircraft before the flight with a written sign to use attached to it.

Flight crew are to maintain a safe distance between passengers and themselves;  avoiding direct physical contact. Cabin crew will serve only pre-packed meals to passengers. Where practicable, flight crew will reserve one lavatory for their own use.

The guidelines are rather lengthy and deals deals with the crew member more as an instructor to put the protocols in place and more for passengers to follow instructions and adhere to it strictly.

Although the guidelines have already been stated and local flights already resumed, the resumption dates for international operations have not been confirmed, Although stipulated date remains 21 of July, Nigerians stranded abroad are becoming edgy, weary and are looking for the slightest opportunity to fly home as their stay outside the country is been prolonged,