(CNN) – Only a few weeks after restarting domestic flights, Indonesian the Lion Air carrier has canceled them again, citing problems with passengers not following Covid-19 regulations.
The Lion Air Group, which also includes Batik Air and Wings Air, began slowly reintroducing short-haul routes on May 10. But the flights that were restored did not last long.
The company has announced that all routes were suspended again on June 5 due to widespread problems with passengers who did not comply with virus-related rules regarding long-distance grouping and health disclosure.
In the press release, a Lion Air representative explained that “many prospective passengers cannot travel by air because they do not complete the documents and conditions needed during the 2019 Pandemic Virus Disease (Covid-19) Disease.”
Some international flights offered by this airline have also been canceled. In normal operation, Lion Air also flies to Saudi Arabia, China, Malaysia and Singapore.
Airlines based in Jakarta have taken steps to ensure safety on board, such as blocking the middle seat, deep-cleaning aircraft and replace the HEPA filter on the plane where the passenger is suspected to be sick.
In announcing the decision, Lion Air specifically mentioned its concern for the health of employees, especially cabin crew who are at risk of contracting the corona virus from travelers.
“Lion Air Group supports the government regarding efforts to prevent the spread of Covid-19, through active participation in implementing health protocols established by the Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Health and Task Force,” the company wrote in a statement released on June 3.
So far, there is no news when this flight will be rescheduled. Lion Air offers refunds to passengers who have already booked their tickets, but that does not allow anyone to make a new reservation for now.
