In the process of Unlock 1, many flyers have been able to travel across the country. But in an attempt to stay abreast with the rules of social distancing and maintain minimal contact, airlines have updated their flying guidelines.

With precaution being the highest priority, airlines are taking utmost care to ensure everyone's safety. Because of the nature of the virus, the otherwise all comprehensive services of air travel have been changed to better comply with the new normal.

Here is all you need to know about the updated guidelines.

Important documents

To do away with long ques and physical contact, physical check-ins have been ceased in the current situation. Airlines have now made web check-in mandatory for flyers 48 hours to 60 mins before the flight. Flyers can either use the airline app or website to check-in through the online mode. 

Another addition to the list of important documents while flying are health declaration. These declarations need to be updated by the travellers 48 hours to 60 minutes before boarding. The passengers are required to add the check-in luggage and get a baggage tag within 48 hours to 60 mins.

It is also important for passengers to install the 'Aarogya Setu app' on their phones to show their health status at the airport entrance. Flyers with only green status are allowed to fly. 

A precautionary measure that is now become a way of life is that of wearing a mask and carrying a sanitiser. It has been advised to keep the mask on at all times and also keep a sanitiser handy during the course of the flight. 

Also, passengers should not forget to carry a printed/soft copy of their boarding pass along with the luggage tag to reduce physical contact at the airport. 

When at the airport

Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before the boarding as counters now close 60 mins before the flight. The boarding gates for flight continue to shut 25 mins before the flight.

The airport now allows 20 kg single check-in baggage per passenger along with a single hand baggage, small enough to fit under the seat. 

Travel companies continue to not serve food and beverages during the flight, and passengers are advised to eat from home or at the airport. 

While bottles will be served at the airport, the passengers are advised to discard bottles before entering the flight. 

As the country begins its way towards Unlock 1, many industries have welcomed changes in the way they usually function. While international travel continues to be banned, the opening up of domestic travel came as a relief to people of the country.