Airline advisories: 3 tips for Filipinos before flights during pandemic

MANILA, Philippines — In announcing a recorded uptick in flight bookings since the pandemic began, budget carrier AirAsia Philippines advised travelers to still follow safety protocols at this point of the pandemic.

After all, with the Omicron variant now threatening the country, stringent safety measures on ground and in flight should still be strictly implemented, the airlines said. These include physical distancing and the proper wearing of face masks. 

Remember safety protocols

• AirAsia passengers, in particular, are requested to download the TRAZE mobile app for contact tracing. It allows them to scan QR codes before entering the airport.
• For international guests, those without a valid COVID-19 RT-PCR test taken prior to departure will be denied entry.
• Guests coming from abroad into Manila are required to register and complete the electronic Health Declaration Card or eHDC through the Bureau of Quarantine’s Platform, three days prior to departure.
• They then must save the transaction number which will be sent through their registered email address.
• On the day of departure, guests must update their OneHealthPass (OHP) registration with a seat number, health declaration, and other details. It is recommended that guests print the QR code sent to their emails. 

Be punctual

Guests are advised to arrive at the airport at least two to four hours before the scheduled flight departure to help avoid any unforeseen delays.

Remember that flight schedules occasionally change due to changes in travel protocols and other unforeseen circumstances. This is why AirAsia recommends that guests arrive at least two hours prior for domestic services and three to four hours before their departure time for international flights to accommodate for any potential delays, particularly during the peak period.

With the number of travelers surging by the day, being early minimizes the risk and hassle of getting caught up in traffic on the way to the airport, or within the airport vicinity as well as potentially long queues during pre-flight procedures. AirAsia reminds guests that the gate closes strictly 45 minutes prior to departure. 

Maximize contactless transactions 

• Guests are encouraged to check-in early using the Airasia Super App or the airasia.com via the Manage My Booking feature.
   
• Pre-departure check-in via these platforms may be done as early as 24 hours before the scheduled flight. 
   
• The airline also partnered with digital payment giants, Gcash and Paymaya among others to provide contactless solutions during their journey.