Airlines gradually resume flights to Cambodia

Phnom Penh (VNA) - More regional airlines have begun to resume flights to Cambodia’s international airports this month – under strict biosecurity guidelines – as the industry attempts to desperately revive itself from the worst period in aviation history, reported the Khmer Times on May 5.

Cambodia Angkor Air, China Air and Eva Air all reinstated air routes to Phnom Penh International Airport at the start of this month. Other major airlines such as Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Thai Airways and Emirates are also scheduling for flights to resume to Cambodia in June and July.

However, the airlines have also applied strict biosecurity measures during their flights with passengers having to undergo “on the spot” blood tests, as well as staff’s wearing of personal protective suits.

An Emirates representative said in order to resume flights in June, the airline has introduced on-site rapid finger prick tests for the virus at its Dubai Airport Terminal which can produce results in under 10 minutes. In addition, the carrier requires passengers to wear their own masks when at the airport and on board the aircraft, and follow social distancing guidelines.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) on May 4 updated its analysis of the COVID-19 impact on the industry, showing that air passenger revenue could plummet 252 billion USD – 44 percent below the 2019 figure./.