TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Lion Air Group, Lion Air, Batik Air, and Wings Air, planned to reopen its domestic flights starting May 3, 2020, after its service suspended in the wake of the coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic.

The Group's Corporate Communications Strategic, Danang Mandala Prihantoro, explained the reoperation was under the special permission of the Transportation Ministry. “[Exemption flights] to serve business people, not for those going mudik or mass exodus,” said Danang on Tuesday, April 28.

According to him, the airlines will serve domestic flights including in cities or destinations enforcing the Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB) and red zone areas.

“Business people and would-be passengers must comply with the COVID-19 protocols,” Danang underlined.

Based on Lion Air Group’s statement, passengers are obliged to bring with them a health certificate noting they are tested negative for COVID-19 from a local hospital and have passed medical screenings such as rapid diagnostic test, swab tests, or PCR test.

Would-be passengers must also fill in a statement letter provided by the airline, show their business statement from their institution or office or a trading statement, and abide by other conditions set by the government.

BRAM SETIAWAN