The entire world is faced with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and we see additional restrictions and precautionary measures being put in place by various countries almost on a daily basis. The aim clearly is to minimize the risks of getting infected and to avoid a breakdown of the health system to ensure that serious cases can get the treatment that is required.
Reading and listening to the news and facts that are available to all of us, it becomes obvious that we have to accept the fact that there is no absolute guarantee not to get infected anywhere, be it down route or simply at home. The risks are real, however, what we all can do is to minimize these risks by observing ALL recommendations and instructions published by the company, governments and health experts. It is the responsibility of each and every one to acknowledge and follow all of these recommendations! Not only while being on a trip, but also at home!
We have a few colleagues who are affected by COVID-19, be it either because they have been positively tested, or they have been in contact with an affected colleague and put on a precautionary watch.
In all cases the company has been informed and the appropriate emergency response procedure was followed.
Additionally, we would like to remind you of the following:
-
- As crew we have to operate in a closed environment, whether we are in the air at FL 350 or on the ground having mechanics, load controllers, cleaners come on board. Be polite and kindly ask each person entering the upper deck to come one at a time so as to minimize the risks of being too close to each other and to maintain the required segregation.
-
- Also, when on a layover we urge you to apply ALL recommendations and maintain the required physical segregation when socializing and talking to other colleagues. The information can be found in the dedicated “Coronavirus (COVID-19)” folder, which is located in the SCL on the iPad under “Health and Safety Information”.
-
- While on a trip, please refrain from socializing with someone not being your colleague as it increases the risk of spreading the virus tremendously. This is a real threat!
- At many destinations it is recommended or even required to stay in the hotel, please adhere to this.
Please bear in mind that following these rules is absolutely essential! Any uncontained COVID-19-outbreak within the pilot community could have catastrophic consequences not only to the company’s business model but would also affect your and your colleague’s private lives in a similar manner.
We do maintain a close dialogue with management, where we are provided with regular updates and we also provide feedback to collectively manage this crisis. Attached is our latest recommendation to management that will assist us in keeping the operation moving as safely and healthy as possible. A recommendation not to split up crews while on a rotation was also passed on to management.
