Arrivals waiting at the customs. — VNA/VNS Photo Huy Hùng

HÀ NỘI — The Civil Aviation Authority of Việt Nam has just issued a document enforcing stricter regulations for passengers arriving in the country, a move aiming to control the spread of the Omicron variant.

Following the new instruction, if passengers have gone through countries that detected Omicron infections prior to arrival to Việt Nam, they must take quick tests for SARS-CoV-2 before boarding and leaving the aircraft. 

The Airports Corporation of Việt Nam (ACV) - who manages Nội Bài, Tân Sơn Nhất, Cam Ranh, and Đà Nẵng international airports - along with the private international airport Vân Đồn in Quảng Ninh Province will work with the local authorities to set up quick test areas at international airports.

Passengers have to bear the costs of tests, which will have a reasonable price in line with the Ministry of Health's to-be-issued regulations.

The ACV will also assess the current arrival process at the airports for adjustments and updates, ensuring there is no congestion at terminals, especially in SARS-CoV-2 testing areas.

Airlines are asked to coordinate with related stakeholders and authorities to conduct rapid testing and handle cases testing positive for the virus. 

They are also not allowed to carry passengers who do not meet the requirements of the quick tests, as per direction of the Prime Minister. — VNS