Over the last few weeks, SATA Group airlines have been constantly monitoring the evolution of the new Coronavirus outbreak, and have complied with the recommendations issued by the competent national and international bodies, namely IATA (International Air Transport Association), the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Centre of Disease Prevention and Control, as well as the General Health Directorate, and also the national aeronautical entity, ANAC.
At the moment, and given the situation that has arisen, it has been recommended that some preventive measures be taken, which are usual in situations of this nature, and which are already implemented onboard SATA Group aircraft.
Thus, for passengers' greater peace of mind, individual protection measures (individual masks) were reinforced; new prevention kits were placed on board, which add to the already existing first aid kits; and disinfectant units were also reinforced for the correct hygiene of hands and common work areas.
Similarly, the communication of procedures to be adopted by the crew members, who will act according to the indications issued by the health authorities for the air transport sector, whenever passengers show signs of discomfort, such as fever, acute cough, or respiratory problems, has been reinforced.
At the same time, it is always advisable to adopt individual, simple behavior appropriate to this and other social circumstances. Namely:
- Wash your hands frequently, with soap and water, for 20 seconds, and especially after blowing, sneezing, or coughing.
- Cover your nose and mouth (with a handkerchief and never with your hands) when sneezing or coughing.
- In case of fever or general malaise, the passenger should consult a doctor before making his/her trip or call in advance the National Health Line 24 (No. 808 24 24 24) or Regional Health Line (Azores) 808 24 60 24, for more tranquility and prevention.