The fourth phase of the lockdown in India has seen several relaxations with respect to the movement of people and goods.
Today, Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Hardeep Singh Puri tweeted that domestic civil aviation operations will recommence in a calibrated manner from 25th May 2020.
He also asked all airports & air carriers to be ready for operations from 25th May.
The announcement comes a day after Puri said the Centre alone cannot unilaterally decide on resuming passenger flights without the cooperation of state governments.
As major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, etc. continue to remain in ‘red zone’, a green signal from the state governments will be required to resume operations from these areas.
Certain state governments have already expressed their apprehensions of allowing entry of people from other states.
As domestic flights resume operations, the civil aviation ministry is working towards formulating a new set of guidelines for both passengers and staff. These guidelines will include mandatory social distancing, revisions in security procedures to ensure minimal contact, use of face masks and personal protective equipment.
While the passenger flights, both domestic and international, have been suspended in the country since 25th March, there has been no word on the resumption of international flights, yet.