Flyers without masks are not allowed on boarding

By Our Special Correspondent

In a fresh set of instructions issued today, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has asked airlines to de-board the passengers who refuse to wear masks.

CISF and other police personnel deployed at the entrance of the airport would have to ensure that no one was allowed inside the airport without wearing a mask, the instructions stated.

The circular followed a Delhi High Court order of June 3 which said the "DGCA should issue separate binding directions to all staff persons deployed at the airports and in the aircraft, including flight attendants, air hostesses, captains/ pilots and others, to take strict action against passengers and others who violate the masking and hygiene norms".

If a passenger refuses to wear a mask or violates the "Covid-19 protocol for passengers" on board. The unruly passenger as defined in paragraph 3.1 of the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) and the procedure for handling such passengers must be followed.

Airport operators were instructed to increase advertising and vigilance to ensure that passengers at the terminal were properly wearing masks and following Covid-appropriate behavior.