Enhanced Screening Ordered at Airports
India’s aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation has rolled out a fresh set of safety protocols for airlines after the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak a global public health emergency.
The new directives primarily target flights connected to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where Ebola cases have raised international concern.
Airlines Told to Collect Passenger Health Declarations
Under the revised SOPs, airlines operating direct or connecting flights from affected regions must carry out strict passenger screening before arrival in India.
Travellers will now be required to submit physical or digital self-declaration forms before leaving the aircraft. Airlines have also been instructed to make onboard announcements informing passengers about Ebola symptoms and encouraging early reporting of any illness.
Authorities said the move is aimed at strengthening India’s first line of defence against possible cross-border transmission of the deadly virus.
DGCA Lists Ebola Symptoms for Travellers
Passengers have been advised to immediately alert cabin crew or airport health officials if they experience symptoms such as high fever, severe weakness, headaches, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding.
The DGCA also stated that anyone developing symptoms within 21 days of entering India must seek immediate medical isolation at designated hospitals and inform airport health authorities.
Strict Mid-Air Isolation Rules Introduced
For suspected Ebola cases detected during flights, the aviation regulator has issued detailed emergency procedures.
According to the SOPs, the affected passenger must be shifted to the rear section of the aircraft, while nearby rows and adjacent seats should be kept vacant wherever possible to minimise exposure risks.
Airlines have additionally been ordered to review and replenish onboard medical supplies, including PPE kits, surgical masks, disposable gloves, sanitisers and biohazard disposal bags.
India Tightens Health Vigil as Global Concern Rises
The latest measures reflect growing international caution over the Ebola outbreak and India’s effort to prevent any health emergency at major international airports.
Officials said surveillance and coordination between airlines, airport authorities and health agencies would be intensified in the coming weeks.
