Circular No. 4204/Add.32 Harmonized CAPSCA guidance for the facilitation of passenger flights, including repatriation flights, through the use of public health corridors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION
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Circular nº 4204/Add.32 – 25 september 2020
Subject: Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Harmonized CAPSCA guidance for the facilitation of passenger flights, including repatriation flights, through the use of public health corridors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has issued guidance providing a framework to harmonize public health measures implemented by States to facilitate passenger and repatriation flights using public health corridors. This guidance applies to operations supporting passenger flights, including repatriation flights and flights for ship crew changes.
Crisis Context
It is estimated that by August 2020, more than 250,000 seafarers required immediate repatriation, while a similar number was urgently needed to replace them. On any given day, nearly one million seafarers work on approximately 60,000 large cargo ships worldwide.
Components of the multi-layered control strategy (PHC)
Given the low transmission aboard aircraft, a multi-layered control strategy is recommended, as no single measure is sufficient. The measures include:
- General hygiene: Hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and limitation of direct contact.
- Physical distancing: At least one meter, whenever possible.
- Masks: Recommended for source control (except for children under 5 years of age or individuals with medical exemptions).
Appendix C: Health self-declaration form for the traveling public
The implementation of a uniform format for the exchange of public health information is recommended.
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Close contact | Face-to-face contact > 15 min or physical contact with someone with symptoms within the last 14 days. |
| Symptoms | Fever, cough, respiratory distress, loss of taste/smell. |
| Pre-departure testing | Positive COVID-19 result in the last 3 days. |
Appendix D: COVID-19 declaration form for crews
The crew must confirm their health status prior to departure.
Note: Any member may be subject to additional screening (e.g., temperature equal to or greater than 38°C).
