Airports Council International (ACI) World has issued an advisory bulletin to airports and national authorities following the outbreak of Novel Coronavirus.

ACI World says the guidance aimed at its members can be interpreted as required and used to inform appropriate action in discussion with local and national authorities.

The guidance complements region-specific advice issued by ACI Asia-Pacific to its members.

The non-profit organisation representing the globe’s airports says it expects national regulators and health authorities to coordinate more direct measures affecting aviation in the coming weeks.

‘BEST PRACTICE’ ADVICE

ACI World Director General Angela Gittens said: “The health and welfare of travellers, staff and the public, and to reduce the opportunities for dissemination of communicable diseases, are the priorities for the aviation industry following the recent novel coronavirus outbreak.

“The guidance we have issued reiterates a number of options and best practices that airports and national authorities can use to protect against communicable diseases that might pose a serious risk to public health.

“The recommendations are designed to reduce exposure to an infectious agent at airports and to improve the response to health-related emergencies by establishing standards and procedures for rapid decision-making and action.”

The Advisory Bulletin: Transmission of Communicable Diseases highlights preparedness measures addressing aspects such as communication (especially with the public); screening; logistics (transport of travellers to health facilities); equipment; entry/exit controls; and coordination with local, regional and national public health authorities.

Attention should be paid to internal and external communications, it continues.

In the case of the former that covers airport employees and others who may not be employed directly by the operator such as contractors and sub-contractors, airlines, handling agents, air traffic management, local hospitals, police, customs, immigration, security, retailers and others.

External communications would be made with local, regional and national public health authorities; travellers (before reaching the airport/in the terminal building); travel agents and hotel associations; tourism organisations; media; other airports in the same state/region; and others.

In the event of an outbreak, travellers should receive consistent information about postponed travel and screening arrangements before they reach the airport.

This could be via websites, printed media, notices on social media, radio, television stations, or a recorded telephone message.

“When in the airport, information can be given by signage, stands, posters or electronic displays, and by public address,” according to the bulletin.

“The text would be adjusted according to the information to be conveyed. The WHO or national public health authority will provide the information on symptoms. Public announcements, and other forms of communication, should be provided in the languages used by persons most frequently travelling through the airport, including English, as well as the state’s own language(s).

“To ensure public confidence, airport operators should explain to passengers, as fully as possible, the reasons for any necessary health-related measures.”