DGCA directs domestic, international carriers to follow travel restrictions 'scrupulously'

Aviation regulator DGCA has directed all domestic and international carriers to "scrupulously" follow the fresh travel restrictions announced by the government on Monday, which cover countries from the European Union and the UK, and Turkey.

With cases of coronavirus swelling in the country, the government on Monday prohibited entry of passengers from EU countries, Turkey and the UK from March 18 till March 31.

"Travel of passengers from member countries of the European Union, the European Free Trade Association, Turkey and the UK to India is prohibited with effect from March 18. No airline shall board a passenger from these nations with effect from 1200 GMT on March 18. The airline shall enforce it at the initial port of departure," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said in a circular issued on Monday.

It also said the government has expanded compulsory quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days for passengers coming or transiting through Qatar, UAE, Oman and Kuwait and this will also come into effect from 1200 GMT of March 18 at the port of first departure.

"Both these restrictions are temporary measures and shall be in force till March 31 and will be reviewed subsequently.

"All scheduled Indian and foreign airlines engaged in international transportation to and from India, therefore, are directed to scrupulously follow above advisory and not to carry any passenger in violation thereof," the DGCA said in the circular.