Air Crew Asked to Avoid Mask-Off Activities, Gatherings Under New Quarantine Arrangements

The Hong Kong government has implemented stringent layover protocols for local air crew flying to or from overseas, according to a government press release.

Starting Oct. 4, air crew must avoid “mask-off” activities except for eating and drinking, as well as mass gatherings and crowded places such as bars.

Upon arrival at the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), staff must undergo a “test and hold arrangement,”, where they may only leave the airport after testing negative on a nucleic acid test result. Air crew will have to continuously take daily COVID-19 nucleic acid tests until the fourth day following their arrival.

The government has requested airlines put robust structures in place for compliance with these new layover arrangements, including a penalty for rule breaking. An air crew member’s eligibility for designated quarantine arrangements will be revoked if they fail to comply.

The adjustments are expected to increase airline capacities to boost flight services between Hong Kong and other countries.