VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Jakarta. The Transportation Research and Development Agency of the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub) collaborates with the University of Indonesia (UI) in strengthening air transportation health standards.

"The study of health standards is designed to conform to health protocols. According to the rules set by the COVID-19 Task Force, the Ministry of Health and refers to international regulations," Umiyatun Hayati Triastuti, head of transportation research and development agency for the Ministry of Transportation, said through a written statement received in Jakarta, Friday.

The pandemic is a challenge for the Ministry of Transportation as the regulator in the transportation sector to determine policies according to the situation.

The initial recommendation for passenger health standards at the airport and onboard was the implementation of strict health protocols, monitored by authorized personnel. Also engineered seat arrangement for physical distancing, limitation of passenger capacity, cabin baggage, food distribution, and boarding processes. 

The Ministry of Transportation continues to make improvements in policymaking during the pandemic period, which requires cooperation between transportation stakeholders, including academics.

"For example, in this case, the collaboration between the government and academia is to conduct studies and policy recommendations," he said.

In addition, cooperation between the government, the private sector, airlines, airports, and passengers is compactly focused on mutual improvement and security.

They have implemented health protocols since the beginning of entering the airport until leaving for passengers and cabin crew. One of them is reducing the interaction between passengers and airport officials. This can be done by maximizing the use of the Internet of Things (IoT) technology by the airport. 

This technology also increases service time (reduced waiting time) including the time of medical examinations on departure and arrival.

All cabin crew and passengers must also use personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce the risk of transmission to a low one.

The policies issued by the Ministry of Transportation in the air transportation sector is based on in-depth research studies.

However, cooperation between institutions and the community is needed in obeying the health protocol so its implementation runs optimally. (Antaranews)