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CORPORATE PLAN

AND
STANDARD OPERATING
PROCEDURE (SOP) FOR
COVID-19

DOCUMENT INFORMATION
Version Number: 1.2 Version Date: 02-02-2021 Version Status: Final
Author: Corporate Safety Division
Document Owner: Nepal Airlines Corporation
• This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is developed for COVID-19
operations and shall be used throughout the organisation.
Notes: • All the staffs in the organisation shall strictly adhere to the plan and
procedure.
• Any unauthorized reproduction of this SOP is not authorized.
CORPORATE PLAN AND STANDARD
OPERATING PROCEDURE FOR COVID-19

II. Acronyms and Abbreviations

A/C Aircraft
AvSec Aviation Security
ATC Air Traffic Controller
BCP Business Continuity Plan
CAAN Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal
COVID-19 Corona Virus Diseases 19
EMD Engineering Maintenance Department
GH Ground Handling
GrSD Ground Service Department
GS&PM General Service & Property Management
GSE Ground Service Equipment
GSP Ground Service Provider
ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization
NAC Nepal Airlines Corporation
OPS Operation
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
QAD Quality Assurance Department
RTH Ramp Technical Handling
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
SRA Safety Risk Assessment
TACC Turnaround/Transit Aircraft Cabin Cleaning
TIA Tribhuvan International Airport
TOR Terms of Reference
TRG Training
WHO World Health Organization

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III. DISTRIBUTION LIST


The Corporate Plan and Standard Operating Procedure for COVID-19 shall be distributed, but
is not limited to, as follows
Format Type
Copy
Manual Holder Hard Soft
#
Copy Copy
01 Corporate Safety Manager √ √
02 Chief Executive Officer √ √
03 Quality Manager √
04 Deputy Managing Director (Admin.) √
05 Deputy Managing Director (Technical) √
06 Director, Operations √
Director, Continuing Airworthiness
07 √
Management
08 Director, Engineering Maintenance √
09 Director, Ground Support √
10 Director, Customer Service √
11 Director, Commercial √
Director, General Service & Property
12 √
Management
13 Director, Finance √
14 Director, Human Resource √
15 Director, Corporate √
16 Director, Internal Audit √
17 Director, Flight Review Committee √
18 Director, Board Secretariat √
19 Corporate Safety Internal Library √
20 Relevant Authority/Person as required √ √
Flight Safety Standard Department,
21 √ √
CAAN

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IV. Table of Contents

1 CORPORATE PLAN AND STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE


(SOP) FOR COVID-19 ............................................................................................. 3
1.1 Background: ................................................................................................................ 3
1.2 Corporate Policy.......................................................................................................... 3
1.3 Corporate Plan ............................................................................................................. 4
1.3.1 Proactive Plan:............................................................................................................. 4
1.3.2 Reactive Plans: ............................................................................................................ 7
1.4 Organization & Management ...................................................................................... 9
1.4.1 Organization Structure for COVID-19 Operation ....................................................... 9
1.4.2 Co-Ordinator ............................................................................................................. 10
1.4.3 Focal Person .............................................................................................................. 10
1.4.4 Disinfection Teams ................................................................................................... 10
1.4.5 Supervision and Quality Control ............................................................................... 11
1.4.6 Safety Inspection and Observation ............................................................................ 11
1.4.7 Quality Assurance ..................................................................................................... 11
1.4.8 Resource Allocation .................................................................................................. 11
1.5 Simplified work flow process for the Aircraft handling amid COVID-19 at Ramp . 12
1.6 Integrated Procedure during COVID 19 Operations ................................................. 13
1.6.1 Scopes: ...................................................................................................................... 14

2 BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLAN (BCP)...................................................... 17


2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................... 17
2.2 Safety Risk Management during Crisis:.................................................................... 17
2.3 Safety Risk Assessment Matrix................................................................................. 18
2.4 Safety Risk Tolerability Matrix................................................................................. 18
2.4.1 An Alternate Safety Risk Tolerability Matrix ........................................................... 19
2.4.2 Safety Risk Probability.............................................................................................. 19
2.5 Challenge for all the Departments:............................................................................ 23
2.5.1 Operations Department: ............................................................................................ 23
2.5.2 Continuing Airworthiness Management Department: .............................................. 23
2.5.3 Engineering Maintenance Department ...................................................................... 23
2.5.4 Ground Support Department ..................................................................................... 23
2.5.5 Customer Service Department: ................................................................................. 23
2.5.6 Finance Department: ................................................................................................. 24
2.5.7 Human Resource Department ................................................................................... 24
2.5.8 Commercial Department ........................................................................................... 24
2.5.9 General Services and Property Management ............................................................ 24
2.5.10 Corporate Department ............................................................................................... 24
2.5.11 Quality Assurance Department ................................................................................. 25

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2.5.12 Internal Audit Department ........................................................................................ 25


2.6 Major Challenge: ....................................................................................................... 25
2.6.1 Considerations: .......................................................................................................... 25

3 SOP FOR GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE WORK......................... 29


3.1 Procedures for Preventive Measures ......................................................................... 29
3.1.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 29
3.1.2 Procedures for Daily Operation................................................................................. 29
3.1.3 Procedures for the Visitors to NAC Office ............................................................... 30
3.1.4 Procedure for the Inspection/Observation/Field Visit............................................... 30
3.1.5 Procedure of the dissemination of official information/letters.................................. 30
3.1.6 Procedure of Office sanitization and transportation disinfection .............................. 30
3.2 Daily Briefings and Updates ..................................................................................... 31

4 SOP FOR AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE..................................................... 35


4.1 Guidelines for Staffs Working in Aircraft Maintenance ........................................... 35
4.2 Recommendations based on work tasks .................................................................... 36
4.2.1 Procedure of Hangar and workshop area disinfection .............................................. 36
4.2.2 Interior Work ............................................................................................................. 36
4.2.3 Routine Maintenance................................................................................................. 36
4.2.4 Air Filter Replacement .............................................................................................. 36
4.2.5 Disinfection of aircraft .............................................................................................. 36
4.2.6 Aircraft Preservation: ................................................................................................ 38
4.3 Minimizing exposure to COVID-19 at work ............................................................ 38
4.4 Stay well informed .................................................................................................... 39
4.5 Aircraft COVID-19 Disinfection Control Sheet ....................................................... 40

5 SOP FOR GROUND HANDLING................................................................. 43


5.1 Passenger Check-in, Transfer, Gate Handling and Arrival Hall ............................... 43
5.1.1 Procedures ................................................................................................................. 43
5.1.2 Regulations for Carriage of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer in Passenger and Crew
Baggage................................................................................................................................... 45
5.2 Baggage and Cargo Handling ................................................................................... 46
5.2.1 Handling of Baggage ................................................................................................. 46
5.2.2 Handling Cargo from Affected Countries ................................................................. 46
5.2.3 Human Remains Transportation................................................................................ 46
5.3 Ramp Handling ......................................................................................................... 48
5.3.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 48
5.3.2 Aircraft Arrival with Suspected COVID-19 Cases ................................................... 48
5.3.3 Aircraft Ground Movement ....................................................................................... 49
5.4 Aircraft Disinfection Process .................................................................................... 51
5.5 Waste Management ................................................................................................... 51
5.6 Disinfection Requirements of GSE ........................................................................... 52

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5.7 GSE Disinfection Procedure ..................................................................................... 53


5.7.1 Ramp Bus Disinfection Procedure. ........................................................................... 53
5.7.2 Pax Step Disinfection Procedure. .............................................................................. 53
5.7.3 Ambulift Disinfection Procedure. ............................................................................. 53
5.7.4 Aircraft Loading & Baggage/ Cargo carrying equipment Disinfection Procedure. .. 54
5.7.5 Lavatory Service Equipment Disinfection Procedure. .............................................. 54
5.8 ULD Handling ........................................................................................................... 56
5.8.1 General Procedures ................................................................................................... 56
5.8.2 Loading ULDs into Parked Aircraft .......................................................................... 56
5.8.3 Stacking ULDs .......................................................................................................... 57
5.8.4 Stacking ULDs of Different Types ........................................................................... 58
5.9 GSE Storage .............................................................................................................. 58
5.9.1 Preparation ................................................................................................................ 58
5.9.2 Planning and Actions ................................................................................................ 58
5.10 During Storage .......................................................................................................... 61
5.10.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 61
5.11 Return to Service ....................................................................................................... 62
5.11.1 Planning and Preparation .......................................................................................... 62
5.11.2 Return to Service Safety and Functional Check........................................................ 63
5.12 Training ..................................................................................................................... 64
5.12.1 Human Performance .................................................................................................. 64
5.12.2 Staff Training ............................................................................................................ 64
5.12.3 Initial Training........................................................................................................... 65
5.12.4 Training Currency Extension .................................................................................... 65
5.12.5 Training Methods ...................................................................................................... 65
5.12.6 Training for Cargo Transported in Passenger Cabin ................................................. 66
5.13 Monitoring/Evaluation/Implementation/Feedback Committee................................. 66

6 SOP FOR FLIGHT OPERATIONS .............................................................. 69


6.1 Standard for Grade Level of Flight Infection Risks and Principles of Diseases
Prevention and Control ............................................................................................................... 69
6.2 Temperature screening .............................................................................................. 69
6.3 Categorization of flights ............................................................................................ 69
6.3.1 Low- Risk flight: ....................................................................................................... 69
6.3.2 Medium -Risk flight: ................................................................................................. 71
6.3.3 High-Risk flight: ....................................................................................................... 71
6.3.4 Handling of in-flight suspected case(s) ..................................................................... 74
6.3.5 Obligations for aircraft operators, airlines and aircraft with suspected case(s) on
board. 76
6.3.6 Disinfection of the aircraft ........................................................................................ 76
6.4 Introduction to Operation and Training Plan ............................................................ 78
6.4.1 In-flight Contingencies .............................................................................................. 78
6.4.2 In-flight Medical Emergencies .................................................................................. 79
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6.4.3 Crew facilitation ........................................................................................................ 79


6.4.4 Aircraft Dispatch Conditions .................................................................................... 79
6.5 Recent Experience Requirements.............................................................................. 79
6.6 Crew Training Program ............................................................................................. 80
6.6.1 IOCC Actions ............................................................................................................ 80
6.7 Minimum Cabin Crew in Cabin on Cargo flights ..................................................... 80
6.8 Medical Assessment Validity Extension ................................................................... 80
6.9 Area, Route & Aerodrome Qualifications................................................................. 81
6.10 DGR Training Validity Extension............................................................................. 81
6.11 PPC Validity Extension............................................................................................. 81
6.11.1 Extension of FDP – FRA Form ................................................................................. 82
6.11.2 Risk Assessment for Lack of Recency in Knowledge, Skills, Training & Assessments
83

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 CORPORATE PLAN AND STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE


(SOP) FOR COVID-19 .............................................................................................3
1.1 Background: ................................................................................................................ 3
1.2 Corporate Policy. ........................................................................................................ 3
1.3 Corporate Plan ............................................................................................................ 4
1.3.1 Proactive Plan: ............................................................................................................ 4
1.3.1.1 Human Resource Management. ............................................................................................................4
1.3.1.2 Training and Awareness ........................................................................................................................5
1.3.1.3 Communication .....................................................................................................................................5
1.3.1.4 Aviation Security ....................................................................................................................................5
1.3.1.5 Operational SOPs for different scopes ..................................................................................................6
1.3.2 Reactive Plans:............................................................................................................ 7
1.3.2.1 Medical Facilitation: ..............................................................................................................................7
1.3.2.2 Contact Tracing: .....................................................................................................................................7
1.3.2.3 Home/ Hotel Quarantine .......................................................................................................................8
1.4 Organization & Management ..................................................................................... 9
1.4.1 Organization Structure for COVID-19 Operation ...................................................... 9
1.4.2 Co-Ordinator ............................................................................................................. 10
1.4.2.1 General TOR of the Coordinators ........................................................................................................10
1.4.3 Focal Person.............................................................................................................. 10
1.4.3.1 General TOR of the Focal Person .........................................................................................................10
1.4.4 Disinfection Teams ................................................................................................... 10
1.4.4.1 Aircraft Disinfection Team ...................................................................................................................10
1.4.4.2 GSE Disinfection Team .........................................................................................................................10
1.4.4.3 GS&PM Disinfection Team ..................................................................................................................10
1.4.5 Supervision and Quality Control .............................................................................. 11
1.4.6 Safety Inspection and Observation ........................................................................... 11
1.4.6.1 TOR of the Safety Observer/Inspector ................................................................................................11
1.4.7 Quality Assurance ..................................................................................................... 11
1.4.8 Resource Allocation.................................................................................................. 11
1.5 Simplified work flow process for the Aircraft handling amid COVID-19 at Ramp 12
1.6 Integrated Procedure during COVID 19 Operations ................................................ 13
1.6.1 Scopes: ...................................................................................................................... 14

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1 Corporate Plan and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for


COVID-19
1.1 Background:
Ever since the civilization of human beings, the world population has been frequently victimized
by natural disasters (contagious disease) like the Spanish flu, Plague, SARS, MERS, Ebola and
Coronavirus disease COVID-19.
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered
coronavirus. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a potentially severe acute respiratory
infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The COVID-
19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected
person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practice respiratory etiquette (for example,
by coughing into a flexed elbow). The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is being
well informed about the COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads. The World
Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 outbreak a Public Health Emergency of
International Concern (PHEIC) on 30 January 2020 and a pandemic on 11 March 2020
As an effect, most of the countries are implementing direct and indirect lockdown strategy to
minimize its effect and further outbreaks.
One of the most affected businesses by the COVID-19 is Airlines. Being an airline operator and
GSP, NAC is also adversely affected by the COVID-19 on its business continuation. In this situation
(Lockdown and Pandemic) NAC has self-assessed Business Continuity Plan (BCP) for operations.
Unanimously this document has been recognized as Corporate plan and SOP for COVID-19.

1.2 Corporate Policy


NAC flight operations and the GSP services shall, be continued whenever/wherever is required in
accordance with the NAC requirements and/or the requirements of the customer airlines, local
authorities and regulators. NAC ensures the health and hygiene of the staff and passengers. The
Safety Risk Assessment has also been performed as a part of BCP.

For the assurance of the uninterrupted operations (full/part) the Corporation has developed a special
operation strategy and published this NAC Corporate Plan and SOP for COVID-19 Operations to
act in accordance with the working requirements defined by guidelines of CAAN, Ministry of
Health, ICAO and WHO. This NAC Corporate plan and procedure shall be applicable for all fleet
type operated by NAC in International and Domestic operation.

The contents of this NAC Corporate plan and SOP for COVID-19 operations shall be the conjugate
part of existing operational manuals whenever/wherever/whichever is applicable.

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1.3 Corporate Plan


Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, NAC has developed plans regarding the prevention and control of
the virus. These plans shall incorporate:
 Proactive Plan &
 Reactive Plan of COVID-19

1.3.1 Proactive Plan:


The proactive approach to cope the situation:
 Human Resource Management
 Training and Awareness
 Communication Plan
 Aviation Security Plan
 Safety Risk Assessment and Business Continuity Plan (Chapter 2)
 Operational SOPs for different Scopes
i. SOP for General Services and Administration (Chapter 3)
ii. SOP for A/C Maintenance (Chapter 4)
iii. SOP for Ground Handling Services (Chapter 5)
iv. SOP for NAC Flight Operations (Chapter 6)

1.3.1.1 Human Resource Management


With the characteristics of quick and vast spread of COVID-19, it is essential to manage staffs
within the organization in such a way that the business will continue to operate. The management
can consider various mechanism as follows to avoid contamination within staffs:
 Grouping/ Teaming of staffs – Plan to make to set/team as a part of duty rostering as far as
practicable. In case of any suspected case among any staff, isolating a single set or team will
be done immediately and will not have effect on all other members.
 Maintaining/Rostering duties in shift – Plan to develop duty rostering in shift with same
team members as far as practicable. In case of any suspected case among any staff, isolating
a single shift staff will be done immediately and will not have effect on all other members.
 Maintaining social/physical distancing with-in work place – Appropriate measure to be
ensured regarding social distancing in a workplace. The recommended social distance is 2
meters.

NOTE 1: Head of department/division/office shall ensure the above defined mechanism within
working place.
NOTE 2: For Flight Operation, it is recommended to operate all the flights on turn-around basis.
If a layover is required due to some unforeseen circumstance then local regulation regarding social
distancing protocol to be followed.

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NOTE 3: RNA conduct origin and destination flight only to Dubai with Maximum flight hour of 6
including Contingencies) For extra long-haul flight Operations Safety Risk Assessment will be
conducted as and when required.

1.3.1.2 Training and Awareness


The head of department/division shall ensure the training/awareness/briefing of the staff related to
COVID-19 operations.
For the staffs requiring mandatory/regulatory/recurrent trainings, the head of department/division
shall ensure validity of the training either by exemptions, online training, or training with minimum
participants to maintain applicable physical distancing protocols.

COVID-19 OPS and TRG Plan by Operations reflects the training plan referred in Chapter 6.4

1.3.1.3 Communication
Proper and effective communication is the most essential part of day-to-day activities. For COVID-
19 also, frequent and relevant communication is considered as the most effective tool.
 In-House Communication: Head of department/office shall ensure of briefings and updates
within office as mentioned in Chapter 3.1.5
 Communication with Customers: Necessary COVID-19 safety measures information,
pertaining to NAC, local authorities of origin and destination guidelines, should be
communicated with the passengers prior to the flight.

For disseminating such information, following means can be used:


 Communication on Website, advertisement and publication – Corporate Department should
ensure.
 Communication at the time of ticketing – Commercial Department should ensure the safety
briefing to the customer.
 Communication at Airport Premises – Country Manager/Airport Manager/Manager should
ensure the safety briefing prior to boarding the plane.
 Communication On-Board the Aircraft – In-flight announcement and safety brochures to be
disseminated to passengers through IFE system or cabin crews. The communication should
also include any changes in passenger safety briefing as well as the precautionary measures
while using PPEs (facial screen, mask)

1.3.1.4 Aviation Security


Maintaining aviation security norms and standard considering the health of passenger and staffs is
vital during COVID-19 pandemic. For that, NAC shall facilitate and mobilize aviation security
system in crisis situation of COVID 19 without hampering aviation security norms of NCASP,

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SARPs contained in Annex 17 and other relevant provisions of other annexes developed by ICAO.
The security personnel shall ensure that there are no weapons, explosives or other dangerous
devices, articles or substances which may be used to commit an act of unlawful interference.
Security personnel shall follow all standards, orders, rules, norms issued by NAC and local
authorities relating to COVID 19 and manage within our corporation.
A. General guidelines for Security personnel:
a. Hands should be sanitized before wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), as
applicable.
b. All the security personnel shall wear protective mask on duty.
c. Female with long hair should be fastened tightly whereas male should keep short hair to
maintain personnel hygiene.
d. Protective equipment needs to be replaced immediately when exposed to passenger's blood,
vomit and other potentially contagious body fluids.
e. Reusable goggles should be promptly sterilized and dried after each use as applicable.
f. Hands should not touch faces when taking off protective equipment.
g. The used disposable protective equipment should be disposed into dedicated waste bags or
bins for safe disposal whereas reusable PPEs shall be sanitized properly and regularly.
h. While screening staffs and passenger for the temperature reading and COVID-19 symptoms,
the security personnel shall maintain social/physical distance.
i. Those security personnel who engage in manual search of bags, cargo and mail inside and
outside of aircraft should be equipped with required set of personnel equipment when and
where required.
B. Training Requirement
GS&PM department should ensure that, all the security personnel are trained to identify and manage
the unruly passenger situations related to non-respect of essential aviation public health and safety
measures. These security personnel should also be trained on the general SOP of NAC as well as
guidelines of CAAN.
C. Point of Contact
The designated AvSec officer as a point of contact for the implementation of the CAAN AvSec
guidelines is:
 Mr. Shreeraj Acharya
ERP Manager/ AvSec Officer – Corporate Safety Division
shreerajacharya@nac.com.np
01-4464905

1.3.1.5 Operational SOPs for different scopes


For the effective execution of the corporate plans amid COVID-19, different SOPs have been
developed as follow:
i. SOP for General/Administrative work
ii. SOP for Aircraft Maintenance

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iii. SOP for Ground Handling Services


iv. SOP for NAC Flight Operations

1.3.2 Reactive Plans:


The reactive prospects shall incorporate following but not limited to these plans only.
 Medical Facilitation
 Contact tracing
 Home/ Hotel quarantine

1.3.2.1 Medical Facilitation:


All NAC staffs shall go through the temperature and basic symptom check prior to join duty on
daily basis. NAC security team (GS&PM Department) shall ensure such check at the entry of all
the NAC offices. Any staffs with temperature reading above 100.4° F (38° Celsius) or the staffs
with COVID-19 symptoms shall be prohibited to enter the office premises.
The staff with such symptoms shall be sent to the medical clinic or hospitals as dedicated by the
office and details of such staffs to be informed to the department/office head by security unit.
(For example: If a staff with the high temperature reading showed up at airport office, such staff
shall be sent to the TIA medical clinic beside ATC Tower building and the detail of such staffs shall
be informed to the department/office head by Security unit.)

Furthermore, NAC should ensure proper quarantine of the suspected either by Home or Hotel
quarantine facility, till the COVID-19 test result is out.
If the staff are tested positive for COVID-19 national regulation shall be followed.

1.3.2.2 Contact Tracing:


If a staff has been in contact with the COVID-19 confirmed patient outside the office, such staffs
shall be prohibited to join the duty till the quarantine period defined by Nepal government. Such
staff must provide negative COVID-19 test result prior to re-join duty.

If a staff has been confirmed with COVID-19 virus and has been in the office premise within last
few days, the head of division/department should ensure the contact tracing as per the procedure
issued by Government of Nepal. The staff, who were in contact with the infected colleague, should
be exempted from further duty and the procedure mentioned in the MEDICAL FACILITATION
should be followed.

If a passenger who have been on NAC flight or Handled by NAC staffs confirmed with COVID-
19, the staff, who were in contact with the infected passenger and verified by the government,
should be exempted from further duty and the procedure mentioned in the MEDICAL
FACILITATION should be followed.

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1.3.2.3 Home/ Hotel Quarantine


If any staff with suspected COVID-19 as defined in clause 1.3.2.1 and 1.3.2.2, NAC should ensure
proper quarantine of the suspected either by Home or Hotel quarantine facility, till the COVID-19
test result is out.
If the staff are tested positive for COVID-19 national regulation shall be followed.
Customer Service Department shall act as focal point to ensure the hotel quarantine in Kathmandu
whereas the County manager/ Airport manager will be responsible for case outside Kathmandu.
Respective Department Head/Office Head shall maintain the updated information and database of
their staffs who are on home/hotel quarantine.

Note: If any department has made any prior arrangement for the handling of such event, then
Customer Service Department will be eased from that duty.

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1.4 Organization & Management


For the smooth implementation of the changes due to the additional procedure of the COVID-19,
following organizational strategy has been established.

1.4.1 Organization Structure for COVID-19 Operation

Managing Director
(Accountable Manager)

Corporate Safety Quality Assurance Dept.

DMD (T) DMD (A)


(Coordinator Technical) (Coordinator Administration)

EM Department Commercial Department

CAMO Department GS&PM Department

Operation Department HR Department

Grd. Support Department Finance Department

Cust. Service Department Corporate Department

Note: All other Departments/Divisions/Units which are not enlisted under special organogram for
COVID-19 operation are also equally responsible and entitled to follow this Corporate Plan and
SOP for COVID-19

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1.4.2 Co-Ordinator
DMD Technical and DMD Administration shall act as the coordinator for technical and
administrative activities for the COVID-19 operations respectively.

1.4.2.1 General TOR of the Coordinators


1. To coordinate with focal persons of respective departments in accordance with respective
scope (General, Operations, Maintenance, NAC-GSP).
2. To coordinate with external stakeholder including government entities.
3. To coordinate with agencies for Quarantine / Isolation provisions.
4. To Report activities/ issues to the Managing Director.

1.4.3 Focal Person


Each Department head shall act as focal person (can nominate) to periodically report the activities
to the coordinator. Focal Person will be responsible for the inter-departmental co-ordination.

1.4.3.1 General TOR of the Focal Person


1. To coordinate with supervisors/in-charge/sub-ordinates during the COVID-19 operations of
the respective scopes. (General, Operations, Maintenance, NAC-GSP).
2. To coordinate with external stakeholder including government entities.
3. To ensure availabilities of the resources.
4. To maintain information and data base of staff requiring Quarantine / Isolation.
5. To formulate and recommend new modalities as required by the industry.
6. To Report activities/ issues to the respective Co-Ordinator.

1.4.4 Disinfection Teams


1.4.4.1 Aircraft Disinfection Team
EMD shall form a defined/trained Disinfection Team to conduct disinfection for NAC and
Customer Airlines aircraft as and when required.

1.4.4.2 GSE Disinfection Team


GrSD shall form defined/trained Disinfection Team to conduct disinfection for applicable GSE and
passenger baggage/Cargo as and when required.

1.4.4.3 GS&PM Disinfection Team


GS&PMD shall form defined/trained Disinfection Team to conduct disinfection for applicable
transportation vehicles and working areas and/or office spaces as and when required.

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1.4.5 Supervision and Quality Control


To monitor and effective implementation of the provisions all the respective activities are
supervised. Supervision is performed by the respective line supervisor. The respective department
shall be the responsible for the necessary supervision and control of the Quality Requirements.

1.4.6 Safety Inspection and Observation


The Corporate Safety Division is responsible to inspect, observe and evaluate the safety perspective
of the provisions regarding COVID-19 applicable operation. Corporate Safety Division will be
coordinated or consulted for the necessary risk evaluation/assessment of the safety hazard regarding
COVID-19 operations.

1.4.6.1 TOR of the Safety Observer/Inspector


1. To observe the safety hazards in the various operations amid COVID-19 frequently.
2. To provide feedback on the SOP of various operations if any.
3. To coordinate with the head of department or office head or focal person of the different
units.
4. To assist in the preparation of safety risk assessment/ evaluation.
5. To report potential hazard for safety to the department head or to the Accountable Manager
with recommendations as and when required.

1.4.7 Quality Assurance


The functions shall be quality audited and compliance monitored by the QA Department on the
basis of this SOP guidebook, the working requirements defined by guidelines of CAAN, Ministry
of Health, ICAO and WHO.
QA Department shall act as liaison body between regulator and NAC.

1.4.8 Resource Allocation


As and when required the required materials / PPE and other tools applicable to the COVID-19
operation shall be made available by the GS&PM Department.
Nevertheless, on urgent basis, the specific items/ tools can also be managed/procured by the
concerned Department.

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1.5 Simplified work flow process for the Aircraft handling amid COVID-19 at
Ramp
Start

Landed A/C marshaled by


RTH team to the BAY

Positioning of Chocks and


Cones by RTH

A/C cabin door and cargo compartment door open


by NAC-GSP or Respective airlines staffs

Positioning/ Applying all the required GSEs. All these GSEs shall be disinfected
by GSE disinfection team as per SOP

Disembarkation of the
passengers in coordination
of flight crew and ramp staff
in managed manner

Disinfection of Baggage and Cargo on


NAC- GSP ramp staff / red cap belt loader by GSE disinfection team
shall monitor the A/C entries and while offloading from A/C
ensure none of the ground staffs
enters A/C before A/C disinfection

Disinfection of cargo hold


A/C disinfection team by A/C disinfection team
onboard disinfect A/C cabin

On completion of cabin Cargo compartment ready


disinfection, cabin cleaning for operation
by TACC team

A/C cabin ready for Normal Operation


operation

Stop

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1.6 Integrated Procedure during COVID 19 Operations


administration Integrated Process Flow Chart
Services and
General

Start

Corporate Plan & Procedure

Maintenance & Airworthiness


A/C Maintenance and

(A/C at Maintenance Facilities)


airworthiness

YES
Disinfection Disinfection Req?
Process
NO
A/C Maintenance/ preparation works
for Airworthiness.

Ground Handling Services


Transit Aircraft
A/C GH /Turnaround

(A/C at Ramp)
services

Disinfection Process YES


(Cust. Airlines/NAC-
Disinfection Req?
GSP)

NO
A/C GH for Flight Ops.

NO
End Scheduled? Airworthiness of A/C

YES
Flight Operations

Flight Ops (Arr/Dep)


Compliance with
COVID19 Operation

A/C at Ramp

A/C GH Services Human Resource Arrangement

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1.6.1 Scopes:
The integrated process flow chart for operation of aircraft during COVID-19 can be understood by
defining four work scope as mentioned below
I. General Services and Administration
The operation process starts with Corporate Plan and SOP incorporating clause 1.3 of this
SOP as well as Chapter 3.

II. A/C Maintenance and Airworthiness


For integrated flow chart it has been assumed with the NAC aircraft from maintenance
facility after availability of necessary resources including human resources.
 Then it will be determined if disinfection inside the aircraft is required or not.
 If required then the disinfection process will be carried out.
 Disinfection process should be referred by Chapter 4.2.4.
 After completion of disinfection process or when it is determined disinfection is not
required, aircraft maintenance/preparation works for airworthiness will be carried
out with referring to the Annex 2.

III. A/C Ground Handling /Turnaround Services


When the aircraft is ready after maintenance activities or for the transit/ turnaround aircrafts
handled by NAC-GSP.
 It will be decided if disinfection is required or not.
 If required then the disinfection process will be carried out.
 Disinfection process should be referred by Chapter 4.2.4.
 After completion of disinfection process or when it is determined disinfection is not
required, A/C ground handling procedure will be carried out with referring to the
Chapter 5.

IV. Flight Operations


For flight operations it will be decided if there is any schedule of flight or not or any
airworthiness /maintenance activities is scheduled.
 If any airworthiness activities have been scheduled then procedure will be followed
under the scope of A/C Maintenance and Airworthiness.
 If there is schedule of aircraft then flight operations procedures shall be carried out
with referring to the Chapter 6.
 When the aircraft will be in ramp after completion of flight then the procedure will
be followed under scope of A/C Ground Handling /Turnaround Services and
General Services and Administration.
 When there is not any schedule of flight or airworthiness schedule the operations
will end.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

2 BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLAN (BCP).....................................................17


2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 17
2.2 Safety Risk Management during Crisis:.................................................................. 17
2.3 Safety Risk Assessment Matrix............................................................................... 18
2.4 Safety Risk Tolerability Matrix............................................................................... 18
2.4.1 An Alternate Safety Risk Tolerability Matrix ......................................................... 19
2.4.2 Safety Risk Probability............................................................................................ 19
2.5 Challenge for all the Departments:.......................................................................... 23
2.5.1 Operations Department: .......................................................................................... 23
2.5.2 Continuing Airworthiness Management Department: ............................................ 23
2.5.3 Engineering Maintenance Department .................................................................... 23
2.5.4 Ground Support Department ................................................................................... 23
2.5.5 Customer Service Department: ............................................................................... 23
2.5.6 Finance Department: ............................................................................................... 24
2.5.7 Human Resource Department ................................................................................. 24
2.5.8 Commercial Department ......................................................................................... 24
2.5.9 General Services and Property Management .......................................................... 24
2.5.10 Corporate Department ............................................................................................. 24
2.5.11 Quality Assurance Department ............................................................................... 25
2.5.12 Internal Audit Department ...................................................................................... 25
2.6 Major Challenge: ..................................................................................................... 25
2.6.1 Considerations: ........................................................................................................ 25

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2 Business Continuity Plan (BCP)


2.1 Introduction
The objective of this guide is to help NAC for its business continuity planning in response to the
COVID-19.
It covers the following key business operational risks.
a. Human resource management
b. Processes and business functions
c. Supplier and customer management
d. Communications, both internal and external

This guide will also help NAC with the following:


a) Minimize health risk to employees and passengers
b) Minimize the risk of premises becoming a mode of transmission
c) Ensure plans are in place should employees be on leave of absence, quarantined
or infected
d) Ensure alternative arrangements with suppliers and customers so that business
operations can continue
e) Financial and management sustainability during the crisis

2.2 Safety Risk Management during Crisis:


The main objective of Safety Risk Management (SRM) is to make sure that all risks remain at an
acceptable level. Safety risk management is careful examination of what, in your work, could cause
harm, so that you can weigh up whether you have taken enough precautions, or should do more to
prevent harm.
Identified hazards are categorized according to their source or location. Also, identified hazards
are prioritized in relation to the risk index (severity & likelihood) category of the hazard’s worst
possible consequence as shown below.

Priority No. Risk Index Category

1 Intolerable / High Risk

2 Tolerable / Moderate Risk

3 Acceptable /Low Risk

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2.3 Safety Risk Assessment Matrix


Risk Severity
Risk Catastrophic Hazardous Major Minor Negligible
Probability
A B C D E

Frequent 5 5A 5B 5C 5D 5E

Occasional 4 4A 4B 4C 4D 4E

Remote 3 3A 3B 3C 3D 3E

Improbable 2 2A 2B 2C 2D 2E

Extremely
1 1A 1B 1C 1D 1E
Improbable

2.4 Safety Risk Tolerability Matrix

Tolerability Description Assessed Risk Index Suggested Criteria

Intolerable region Unacceptable under the existing


5A,5B,5C,4A,4B,3A
circumstances.

Tolerable region
5D,5E,4C,4D,4E,3B Acceptable based on risk
3C,3D,2A,2B,2C,1A mitigation. It may require
Acceptable management decision.
region

3E,2D,2E,1B,1C,1D,1E
Acceptable

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2.4.1 An Alternate Safety Risk Tolerability Matrix


Risk Index Range Description Recommended Action
Cease or cut back operation promptly if necessary.
Perform priority risk mitigation to ensure that
5A,5B,5C,4A,4B,3A High Risk additional or enhanced preventive controls are put in
place to bring down the risk index to the moderate
or low range.
5D,5E,4C,4D,4E,3B, Moderate Schedule performance of a safety assessment to
3C,3D,2A,2B,2C,1A Risk bring down the risk index to the low range if viable.

3E,2D,2E,1B,1C,1D,1E Low Risk Acceptable. No further risk mitigation required.

2.4.2 Safety Risk Probability

Safety Risk Probability Table

Probability
Meaning Value Quantitive
Level
Likely to occur within the
More than
Frequent next 15 days (has occurred 5
90%
frequently).
Likely to occur within 6
Occasional months (has occurred 4 >51-90%
infrequently).
Unlikely to occur, but
Remote possible to occur within 1 3 >11-50%
year (has occurred rarely).
Very likely to occur, but
might occur in the next 5
Improbable 2 >2-10%
years (not known to have
occurred)
Almost inconceivable that
Extremely the event will occur with an
1 0.1-2%
Improbable estimate of occurrence for
more than 5 years

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Safety Risk Severity Table


Value Accident Injury Operational Systems Financial
Catastrophic Irreparable Death or Operating an Complete Fine, citation
loss of total aircraft in an loss or or other loss
aircraft or disability of unairworthy breakdown of more than
A other key an employee and/or unsafe entire system $1,000,000.
equipment or passenger. condition. or sub-
or facility. systems.
Hazardous Significant Partial Operating an Significant Fine, citation
damage - disability aircraft in an breakdown of or other loss
Multiple greater than unairworthy a system or more than
B weeks out of 3 months of but unsafe sub-systems. $200,000 but
service to an employee condition. less than
repair. or passenger. $1,000,000.
Major Moderate Lost Work Operating an Partial Fine, citation
damage - Day injury aircraft in an breakdown of or other loss
Multiple over 3 days uncertain, a system or more than
C days out of for an but sub-systems. $30,000 but
service to employee or ultimately less than
repair. comparable safe $200,000.
to passenger. condition.
Minor Minor Occupational Stopping System Fine, citation
damage - Safety aircraft from deficiencies or other loss
repaired and defined operating. having some more than
back in injury of up effect on time $5000 but
D service to 3 LWD for achievement less than
within 24 an employee of objectives. $30,000
Hours. or similar
passenger
injury.
Negligible Damage is Any non- Affecting Little or no Fine, citation
within limits OSHA injury aircraft effect on or other loss
or requires (no treatment reliability, system or less than
less than 2 needed to but not sub-systems. $5000
E Hours to employee or affecting
repair and passenger). airworthiness
return to or safety of
service. operation.

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Risks should be managed to an acceptable level. This should be balanced against the time, cost
and difficulty of taking measures to reduce or eliminate the risk. The level of risk can be lowered
by reducing the severity of the potential consequences, reducing the likelihood of occurrence or
by reducing exposure to that risk. It is easier and more common to reduce the likelihood than it is
to reduce the severity.
Management of Hazards during this crisis period:

Risk Index
HN Hazards Risk Mitigating Measure Focal

Target
Index
Department

1 Crews Chance of 4 D 1. Depending on the level of operating risk: 3D Operations


Exposure Crews should be provided with proper Department
protective equipments like Masks,
sanitizers, Gloves, Goggles or full Hazmat
suit.
2. Proper briefing among Cockpit crews, cabin
crew’s vice-versa.
3. Use of alcohol wet wipes to disinfect the
control surfaces.
4. Minimum In-Flight Service and avoid
unwanted contact with the passengers.
5. Lavatory should be cleaned regularly and
once finished; hands should be timely
cleaned and disinfected.
6. Extra set of PPEs should be kept in Aircraft.
7. Cabin crews should reduce entering the
cockpit and use of intercom for
communication is recommended.
8. Crews should not disembark the aircraft
while doing flight to high risk areas {even
for walk-around}
9. Self-isolation is recommended for the
crews, if they suspect any of the symptoms
related to COVID. Further Medical
assistance may be sought.
2 Aircraft Chance of 4 C 1. Proper disinfection of the aircraft should be 3C Engineering
Disinfecti spread of done at pre-flight phase and also after the Maintenance
on virus completion of the flight. Department
during
flight 2. Top of descent spraying should be carried 3C Operations
operations out when the aircraft starts the descent. Department

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3 Aircraft To be 4 C 1. Aircraft should be parked and stored 3E CAMD


Parking Flight depending on the duration of the out of
Ready operation period.
condition 2. Aircraft should be in FLIGHT READY
CONDITION for the return in to service.
4 Personnel Vulnerable 4D 1. Use of mask, gloves, goggles by staff. 3E CSD
working at point for 2. Maintain separation and avoid close
check-in the spread contact.
counters of virus. 3. Use of hand sanitizers frequently.
5 Handling High Risk 4C 1. Monitoring of passengers showing 3C Operations
of in- of symptoms like shortness of breath, feeling
flight Contaminat uneasy, persistent coughing, sweating,
suspected ion persistent vomiting, etc. and isolating them
cases. from other passengers with minimum
interaction and moving the suspected
passenger to the last three rows in the cabin.
2. Seeking help of any Doctors on-board the
plane.
3. Reporting and handing over the suspected
passenger to the airport authority.
6 Airport Contaminat 4D 1. Regular disinfection 3E GrSD
Bus and ion 2. Use of PPEs by the personnel.
ground 3. Minimum number of passengers should be
equipment boarding the bus making sure to avoid close
vehicle contact in between the passengers.
4. Preferably walking of the passenger to be
done for embarkation and disembarkation at
KTM
7 Airport Contaminat 4D 1. Vehicle operator should be provided with 3E GSPM
Pickup ion PPEs
and Drop 2. Minimum number of people to be allotted
Vehicle in single Pick-up/drop
3. Regular disinfection to be done.
8 Reputatio Bad news 4D 1. Frequent Press release showing positive 3E Corporate
n of NAC and media safety culture and good public image.
report of 2. Quick response against negative media
Corporatio release.
n

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2.5 Challenge for all the Departments:

2.5.1 Operations Department:


• Plan to set a team/ grouping for the purpose of crew planning. In case of any suspected
case among any crew, isolating a single set or team will be done immediately and will not
have effect on all other members.
• Isolation facilities to be made available, preferably an agreement with hotel, in case of
suspected case among any of the crew- whole team/set can be put in isolation.
• Actions mentioned in the Risk Management column to be fulfilled.

2.5.2 Continuing Airworthiness Management Department:


• Aircraft should be parked and stored depending on the duration of the out of operation
period.
• Aircraft should be in FLIGHT READY CONDITION for the return in to service.

2.5.3 Engineering Maintenance Department


• Plan to make to set/team as a part of duty rostering. In case of any suspected case among
any maintenance staff, isolating a single set or team will be done immediately and will not
have effect on all other members.
• Proper disinfection of the aircraft at the appropriate nature.
• Isolation facilities to be made available, preferably an agreement with hotel, in case of
suspected case among any of the staff- whole team/set can be put in isolation.
• Actions mentioned in the Risk Management column to be fulfilled.

2.5.4 Ground Support Department


• Plan to make to set/team as a part of duty rostering. In case of any suspected case among
any ground staff, isolating a single set or team will be done immediately and will not have
effect on all other members.
• Actions mentioned in the Risk Management column to be fulfilled.

2.5.5 Customer Service Department:


• Plan to make to set/team as a part of duty rostering. In case of any suspected case among
any ground staff will not have effect on all other crews, rather isolating a single set or team
will be done immediately.
• Special attention to be taken to avoid the INAD situation. They might not be allowed to
enter the destination and neither will be able to enter back to our country.
• Actions mentioned in the Risk Management column to be fulfilled.
• Monitoring and update of TIMATIC and other national/international circular for passenger
acceptance.

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• Consideration to be made for the in-flight meal service keeping in mind the service
proximity and virus spread. Preferred packed lunch box over hot meal.

2.5.6 Finance Department:


• Making a policy about the long-term sustainability
• Financial planning amidst COVID for all the corporation staff
• Special consideration to be done in the part of Permanent, Contractual, Daily wage and
outsourced staff.

2.5.7 Human Resource Department


• Sustainability of manpower during the crisis.
• Provision for reward and appraisal for the working staff during crisis.

2.5.8 Commercial Department


• Monitoring and update of TIMATIC and other national/international circular for passenger
ticketing.
• Considering COVID-19 test for all the passengers.
• Workers, stranded passengers, tourists from Nepal in other countries might be compelled
to come back to Nepal. In that case, NAC has to be in ready condition to bring back those
passengers.
• Special attention to be taken to avoid the INAD situation. They might not be allowed to
enter the destination and neither will be able to enter back to the point of departure.

2.5.9 General Services and Property Management


• Procurement of sufficient amount of PPEs
• Actions mentioned in the Risk Management column to be fulfilled.

2.5.10 Corporate Department


• Making a policy for the entire Department to ensure the health of their staff. In case of any
suspected case following things should be clear:
 Whom to contact?
 What to do?
 How to track?
• Maintaining Positive image of Nepal Airlines at all times.
• Developing a plan for OSHA {Occupational Safety and Health Administration}
• Actions mentioned in the Risk Management column to be fulfilled.

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2.5.11 Quality Assurance Department


• Compliance monitoring of the organizational activities.

2.5.12 Internal Audit Department


• Monitoring of all the financial and organizational activities.

2.6 Major Challenge:


NAC being contracted to carry types of cargo that they may have limited experience in handling
(i.e. medical, pharmacy or may be other cargos).

2.6.1 Considerations:
• Hazardous, flammable, and biological items may increase exposure and risk. Dangerous
Goods Regulations will need to be strictly complied with or significant fines could result.
• Transportation of dead body.
• Liability of the carrier may be limited by reference to the weight of the cargo under the
international convention regimes.
• The vast majority of cargo is likely to be medical and pharmacy with low weights, meaning
low financial limits of liability under the applicable international convention compared to
the actual cargo value. NAC should consider whether this creates additional exposures.
• Cargo claims for damage and delay may increase, particularly for perishables and/or
pharmacy which could not be delivered, either in a timely manner or at all, due to grounding
of aircraft and travel/transit restrictions.
• NAC will be operating to and from airports, and in jurisdictions which they are not familiar
with. Thorough safety assessments should be undertaken.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

3 SOP FOR GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE WORK........................29


3.1 Procedures for Preventive Measures ....................................................................... 29
3.1.1 General .................................................................................................................... 29
3.1.2 Procedures for Daily Operation............................................................................... 29
3.1.3 Procedures for the Visitors to NAC Office ............................................................. 30
3.1.4 Procedure for the Inspection/Observation/Field Visit............................................. 30
3.1.5 Procedure of the dissemination of official information/letters................................ 30
3.1.6 Procedure of Office sanitization and transportation disinfection ............................ 30
3.2 Daily Briefings and Updates ................................................................................... 31

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3 SOP FOR GENERAL and ADMINISTRATIVE WORK


3.1 Procedures for Preventive Measures

3.1.1 General
NAC offices are located within the TIA premises, New road (Head Office), various domestic
stations as well as various international stations. As aviation industries are in high-risk zone and
in terms of epidemic prevention & control the spread of COVID-19 and act in accordance with the
working requirements defined by guidelines by CAAN, Ministry of Health and WHO, this
Corporate Plan and SOP for COVID-19 shall be followed by all staffs.

3.1.2 Procedures for Daily Operation


a) All staff shall be equipped with necessary PPEs according to functional areas (e.g. face
mask: normal medical Mask/N-95 mask, hand gloves, face shield etc.)
b) All staffs shall maintain the physical distancing with each other while doing attendance
preferably with face scanner.
c) All staff’s body temperature shall be measured and other health conditions checked which
shows possible symptoms of COVID-19 every day before reporting to duty. (ref. Chapter
1.3.2.1 Medical facilitation)
d) If any suspect cases found during daily health check-up, then it shall be reported to
dedicated medical clinic/ hospitals and informed to higher authorities for further necessary
action. (ref. Chapter 1.3.2.1 Medical Facilitation)
e) All staff shall ensure hand sanitization and personal hygiene with the use of appropriate
means (Soap, Hand sanitizer) frequently.
f) The used disposable protective equipment should be disposed into dedicated waste bags or
bins for safe disposal whereas reusable PPEs shall be sanitized properly and regularly.
g) Holding virtual meetings as far as possible avoiding large physical meetings.
h) All staff shall maintain physical distancing of 2 m with each other as far as possible while
on duty.
i) All staff shall be briefed daily about the updates and procedures regarding COVID-19
issued by authorities.
Note:
I. To accomplish day to day duty of NAC offices with minimum number of staffs or
Grouping of staffs as far as possible (ref Chapter 1.3.1.1, Human Resource Management)
II. Staffs to follow their respective Department's guidelines in addition to above if any.

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3.1.3 Procedures for the Visitors to NAC Office


a) All visitors shall be equipped with necessary PPEs according to functional areas (e.g. face
mask: Normal Medical Mask/N-95 Mask, Hand Gloves etc.), failing to use required PPEs
shall be prohibited to enter the office premises
b) All visitor’s body temperature shall be measured and other health conditions checked
which shows possible symptoms of COVID-19 before entering NAC office. If a visitor
with temperature reading above 100.4° F (38° Celsius) or visitor with symptoms like cough
and sneezing which shows the symptoms of COVID-19 shall be prohibited to enter the
office premises.
c) Necessary hand sanitizing materials shall be made available sufficiently to all visitors.
d) All visitors and staff shall maintain physical distancing with each other as far as possible
while on meeting/duty.

3.1.4 Procedure for the Inspection/Observation/Field Visit


a) Any staff going for inspection/observation/field visit shall be equipped with necessary
PPEs according to type of operation (e.g. face mask: Normal Medical Mask/N-95 Mask,
Hand Gloves etc.) or even full set of HAZMAT Suit.
b) Any staff going for inspection shall maintain physical distancing with other staffs and
passengers as far as possible while on inspection/observation.

3.1.5 Procedure of the dissemination of official information/letters


a) Dissemination of official Information, letters, Circulars, Inter Office Communication by
the means of soft copy such as e-mails, drive/link sharing for communication to be
practiced as far as possible.
b) Holding virtual meetings for the information flow as far as possible avoiding large physical
contacts.
c) In case of communication in hard copy format, proper safety precaution to be applied.

3.1.6 Procedure of Office sanitization and transportation disinfection


a) NAC offices shall be sanitized on regular basis to maintain official hygiene. All the
office heads/in-charge shall ensure proper sanitization of their respective office
accordingly.
b) NAC transportation vehicles should be disinfected and proper SOP should be followed
by GSPM disinfection team.

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3.2 Daily Briefings and Updates


Information and appropriate updates are provided to the work force at a suitable frequency to both
maintain engagement and promote safety awareness. It should include but not be limited to:
 Changes introduced by new regulations on COVID-19
 Organizational and management changes / updates
 New or amended procedures during the COVID-19
 Health and safety actions
 Hygiene routines reminders
 Human factors
 Safety tips
 Safety stand down modules for “Attention to Detail and Distraction Management”
 Injuries, accidents
 Emergency responses

Note:
• Information and updates can be shared through any means of communication.
• Head of department/office shall ensure of above-mentioned briefings and updates within
office

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 SOP FOR AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE....................................................35


4.1 Guidelines for Staffs Working in Aircraft Maintenance ......................................... 35
4.2 Recommendations based on work tasks .................................................................. 36
4.2.1 Interior Work ........................................................................................................... 36
4.2.2 Routine Maintenance............................................................................................... 36
4.2.3 Air Filter Replacement ............................................................................................ 36
4.2.4 Disinfection of aircraft ............................................................................................ 36
4.2.4.1 Materials and Equipment Required ...................................................................................................37
4.2.4.2 Amount of disinfectant, Time and Manpower required for Aircraft Disinfection .............................37
4.2.4.3 Disinfection Procedure ......................................................................................................................37
4.2.4.4 Key Areas for Disinfection ..................................................................................................................38
4.2.5 Aircraft Preservation: .............................................................................................. 38
4.3 Minimizing exposure to COVID-19 at work .......................................................... 38
4.4 Stay well informed .................................................................................................. 39
4.5 Aircraft COVID-19 Disinfection Control Sheet ..................................................... 40

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4 SOP for Aircraft Maintenance


Nepal Airlines Corporation-Engineering Maintenance Department has issued the safety guidelines
for aircraft maintenance and cleaning as a preventive measure during COVID-19 which is based on
the recommendation from regulatory/authority bodies of aviation and shall be followed till risk of
COVID-19 subsist.

4.1 Guidelines for Staffs Working in Aircraft Maintenance


Aircraft maintenance worker could be exposed to COVID-19 in situations such as having close
contact with someone with COVID-19, touching surfaces while repairing/cleaning aircraft interiors
and lavatories that have been touched or handled by a person with COVID-19 and by touching
his/her mouth, nose, or eyes.
To facilitate tracking of staffs involved in particular maintenance work and to limit the contact
between staffs, the maintenance workers are divided into separate working groups. Staffs from only
one group are active at a time and only minimum number of staffs working in work force
distribution to avoid multiple people in area while doing maintenance planning and support are
allocated each day.
 Prior to entry into Hangar area, body temperature of all persons shall be measured and
recorded. Temperature higher than 38℃/ 100.4℉ shall be isolated and reported.
 Limit close contact with others by maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet, as far as possible.
 Any person who is not wearing medical mask shall not be allowed to enter in the hangar
area.
 Practice routine cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces, following the
directions on the cleaning product’s label.
 Use gloves while touching surfaces contaminated by body fluids.
 Proper hand hygiene is an important infection control measure. Washing hands regularly
with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use
an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
 Restrooms should be constantly cleaned and sanitized. A dedicated attendant should be
deployed to ensure that it is properly maintained.
 Key times to clean hands in general include:
 Before, during, and after preparing food
 Before eating food
 After using the toilet
 After blowing nose, coughing, or sneezing
 Additional times to clean hands on the job include:
 Before and after work shifts
 Before and after work breaks
 After touching frequently touched surfaces.
 After removing any personal protective equipment (PPE).
 After performing maintenance tasks such as handling untreated human waste.
 After putting on, touching, or removing cloth face coverings.

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4.2 Recommendations based on work tasks

4.2.1 Procedure of Hangar and workshop area disinfection


 Hangar and workshops shall be sanitized on daily basis to maintain hygiene. All the
office heads/in-charge shall ensure proper sanitization of their respective working area
accordingly.
 Use water and detergent solution or disinfectant properly.

4.2.2 Interior Work


 Wear normally required PPE, if applicable, while doing repairs works/cleaning in the
passenger cabin area.
 Do not use compressed air or water sprays to clean surfaces contacted by passengers, as
these techniques may aerosolize potentially infectious material.
 If cleaning is required before doing repairs, clean the surface using appropriate cleaning
material and techniques.

4.2.3 Routine Maintenance


During ground operation and maintenance, aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU) should
be used for ventilation, and avoid using bridge load air source. After arrival, doors of cabin
and cargo compartment should be opened for ventilation before performing maintenance
work and extend the natural ventilation time

4.2.4 Air Filter Replacement


Wear normally required PPE, if applicable.
 Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation of filter replacement schedule and procedures.
 When replacing air filters (including HEPA filters):
 Disinfect the filter and surrounding area of aircraft with approved disinfectant.
 Avoid hitting, dropping, or shaking the filter.
 Do not use compressed air to clean a filter. This will keep materials in the filter
from becoming airborne.
 Place removed filter and gloves in a sealed plastic bag and dispose in specified
waste bin available in hangar.
 Cleaning hands after the task is finished.

4.2.5 Disinfection of aircraft


This procedure has been developed for disinfection of aircraft cockpit, cabin and equipment
furnishing cargo compartments and other frequently touched aircraft parts by passengers during
aircraft operation in COVID-19 pandemic period for NAC and in accordance with the requirements
of Customer Airlines.

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4.2.5.1 Materials and Equipment Required


 Approved Disinfectant such as Netbiokem DSAM, Cella 1452RTU etc.
 Clean Dry Lint Free Cloth
 Masks
 Water Proof/Plastic Aprons
 Protective Eye Gear
 Rubber Gloves
 Waste Bags
 Water proof boots
 Spray bottle

4.2.5.2 Amount of disinfectant, Time and Manpower required for Aircraft Disinfection
 For narrow body five liters of Disinfectant, 20 minutes times including two skilled
manpower and six semi-skilled manpower.
 For wide body aircraft eight liters of Disinfectant, 20 minutes times including two skilled
manpower and nine semi-skilled manpower.

4.2.5.3 Disinfection Procedure


 Dedicated trained personnel shall only enter the aircraft after wearing all the required
protective gears like masks, protective eye gear, gloves, apron etc. for the purpose of aircraft
routine cleaning and disinfection.
 Dedicated Trained Personnel starts spraying of disinfectant from front to aft of the aircraft,
then five minute later cleaners wipe the disinfectant with lint free cloth.
 “Wet -wipe-on with dampened cloth/wipe-off technique” with approved chemical can also
be done as per requirement.
 Before commencement of aircraft cleaning and disinfection, the cargo door, passenger door
and service door of an aircraft should be in open position for proper ventilation.
 Any other activities on board of aircraft shall only be commenced after disinfection process
after arrival of flight
 “Instruction for Use” and “Safety /Precaution” labeled on the container of approved
disinfectant shall always be followed.
 All disposable protective equipment, after their use, should be placed in properly sealed
waste bags and disposed in airport’s designated dumping area.
 Other reusable protective equipment can be sterilized by washing them with detergent and
hot water or soaked in Diluted Bleach solution, rinse and dry it.
 Reusable goggles should be promptly sterilized and dried every time after use. Goggles with
an anti-fogging film should avoid being wiped with disinfectant.
 Cleaning staff should sanitize their hands properly either by using sanitizer or washing
hands with soap before and after removing their protective gear.
 The aircraft routine cleaning and preventive disinfection after each flight during aircraft line
operation shall be monitored by the respective supervisor.

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 Such tasks should be initiated only after complete disembarkation of all passengers.
 The necessary documentation entry of the disinfection carried out will be made on Aircraft
Flight Log and/or Aircraft COVID-19 Disinfection Control Sheet. The sample sheet for
aircraft disinfection provided from CAAN is attached in Chapter 4.5.

4.2.5.4 Key Areas for Disinfection


 Lavatories: The disinfection in lavatory should be progressed from contaminated to clean
areas as follow: toilet bowls, waste bins, hand basins, lavatory sidewalls, door surfaces,
doorknobs, ashtrays (if installed), and latches.
 Galleys: galley facilities, lockers/drawers, and waste bins. Additional areas as applicable if
the crew members are changed during the aircraft line operation.
 Cabin: Overhead bins, reading lights, air outlets, cabin attendant call switch, sidewall
panels, windows, seats (tray tables, armrests, seatbelt buckles), cabinets/lockers, cabin
attendant seat passenger seats, aisle etc.
 Flight Deck: Armrest, Seat Harness Buckle, Control Column handle & Switches,
Engine/Flight Control Levers, instrument panels, floor etc.
 Cabin Attendant Seats: Seat Harness, Communication Phone, IFE system.
 Railings: Passenger Door Railings
 Cargo Compartment: Floor Panel, Side wall, restraining strap, Cargo Nets

4.2.6 Aircraft Preservation


 Aircraft shall be preserved as per aircraft maintenance manual procedure, regulatory bodies
recommended guide lines.

4.3 Minimizing exposure to COVID-19 at work


 The implementation of safe work practices to limit exposure to COVID-19 at work requires
first assessing the risks, and then implementing the hierarchy of controls. This means putting
in place control measures to first eliminate the risk and if this is not possible, minimize
worker exposure. Start first with collective measures and if necessary, supplement them
with individual measures, such as personal protective equipment (PPE). Below are some
examples of control measures, however, not all of them will be applicable to all workplaces
or jobs due to their nature.
 Carry out only essential work for the time being; it may be possible to postpone some work
to when the risk is lower. If possible, deliver services remotely (phone or video) instead of
in person. Ensure that only workers who are essential to the job are present at the workplace
and minimize the presence of third parties.
 Reduce, as far as possible, physical contact between workers (e.g. during meetings or during
breaks). Isolate workers who can carry out their tasks alone safely and who do not require
specialized equipment or machinery that cannot be moved. For example, whenever possible,
arrange for them to work alone in a spare office, staff room, canteen, or meeting room. If
possible, ask vulnerable workers to work from home (older people and those with chronic
conditions (including hypertension, lung or heart problems, diabetes, or who are undergoing

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cancer treatment or some other immunosuppression) and pregnant workers. Workers with
close family members who are at high risk may also need to telework.
 Eliminate, and if not possible limit, physical interaction with and between each other.
 Place an impervious barrier between workers, especially if they are not able to keep a two-
meter distance from each other. Barriers can be purpose-made or improvised using items
such as plastic sheeting, partitions, mobile drawers, or storage units. Things that are not
solid or that have gaps, like pot plants or trolleys, or that create a new risk, such as from
tripping or falling objects are to be avoided. If a barrier cannot be used, additional space
between workers should be created by, for example, ensuring they have at least two empty
desks either side of them.
 If close contact is unavoidable, keep it to less than 15 minutes. Reduce contact between
different parts of your business at the start and end of shifts. Arrange the timing of meal
breaks to reduce the number of people sharing a cafeteria, staff room, or kitchen. Ensure
there is only one worker at a time in bathrooms and changing rooms.
 Supply soap and water or appropriate hand sanitizer at convenient places and advise workers
to wash their hands frequently. Clean the premises frequently, especially counters, door
handles, tools and other surfaces that people touch often and provide good ventilation if
possible.
 Avoid excessive workload on cleaning staff by taking appropriate measures, such as
assigning additional staff to the tasks and asking workers to leave their workspace tidy.
Provide workers with tissues and waste bins lined with a plastic bag so that they can be
emptied without contacting the contents.
 If anyone identified a risk of infection despite having applied all feasible safety measures,
then provide all necessary PPE. Workers are trained in correct use of PPE, ensuring that
they follow the guidance available on use of facemasks and gloves.
 Encourage staying home when sick, cough and sneeze etiquette, and hand hygiene at the
entrance to the workplace and in other areas where they will be seen.
 Facilitate workers’ use of individual rather than collective transport, encouraging workers
to walk to work, if possible.

4.4 Stay well informed


The amount of information related to COVID-19 can be overwhelming and it can be difficult to
differentiate the reliable and accurate from the vague and misleading. Always check that the original
source of the information is an established and qualified provider. Official sources of information
on COVID-19 include:
 Safety information, circulars from Concern Division, Department and Corporate Safety
Department of Nepal Airlines Corporation
 Local Aviation Authority (CAAN) Guidelines and Circulars.
 EASA Guidelines
 Guidelines from Ministry of health and population

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Everyone is encouraged to report any discrepancies in the workplace to one’s superior and
Corporate Safety Department so that the required remedial action shall be taken for the sake of the
benefit of all.

4.5 Aircraft COVID-19 Disinfection Control Sheet

Aircraft Registration: _____________________________


Date Time Airport Remarks Disinfector name
(dd/mm/yy) (24hr-UTC) (ICAO code)

Aircraft areas treated Disinfectant material Comments Disinfector

Signature

Flight Deck

Passenger cabin

Cargo compartment(s)

Other: _____________

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

5 SOP FOR GROUND HANDLING................................................................. 43


5.1 Passenger Check-in, Transfer, Gate Handling and Arrival Hall ............................... 43
5.1.1 Procedures ................................................................................................................. 43
5.1.2 Regulations for Carriage of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer in Passenger and Crew
Baggage................................................................................................................................... 45
5.2 Baggage and Cargo Handling ................................................................................... 46
5.2.1 Handling of Baggage ................................................................................................. 46
5.2.2 Handling Cargo from Affected Countries ................................................................. 46
5.2.3 Human Remains Transportation................................................................................ 46
5.2.3.1 Option for Air Transport ..................................................................................................................... 47
5.3 Ramp Handling ......................................................................................................... 48
5.3.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 48
5.3.2 Aircraft Arrival with Suspected COVID-19 Cases ................................................... 48
5.3.3 Aircraft Ground Movement ....................................................................................... 49
A. Actions Prior to Movement ...................................................................................................49
B. Action During Movement ......................................................................................................50
C. Action After Positioning Upon Aircraft Stopping: .................................................................51
5.4 Aircraft Disinfection Process .................................................................................... 51
5.5 Waste Management ................................................................................................... 51
5.6 Disinfection Requirements of GSE ........................................................................... 52
5.7 GSE Disinfection Procedure ..................................................................................... 53
5.7.1 Ramp Bus Disinfection Procedure. ........................................................................... 53
5.7.2 Pax Step Disinfection Procedure. .............................................................................. 53
5.7.3 Ambulift Disinfection Procedure. ............................................................................. 53
5.7.4 Aircraft Loading & Baggage/ Cargo carrying equipment Disinfection Procedure. .. 54
5.7.5 Lavatory Service Equipment Disinfection Procedure. .............................................. 54
A. Disinfection............................................................................................................................54
B. Lavatory Truck Operation for Providing Services. (Performed by GSEO Section) .................54
C. Discharge of Lavatory from the Lavatory Truck Tank (Performed by the GSEO Section) .....55
D. Parking after whole operation/ services (Performed by GSEO section) ...............................55
5.8 ULD Handling ........................................................................................................... 56
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5.8.1 General Procedures ................................................................................................... 56


5.8.2 Loading ULDs into Parked Aircraft .......................................................................... 56
5.8.3 Stacking ULDs .......................................................................................................... 57
5.8.4 Stacking ULDs of Different Types ........................................................................... 58
5.9 GSE Storage .............................................................................................................. 58
5.9.1 Preparation ................................................................................................................ 58
5.9.1.1 General Principles ............................................................................................................................... 58
5.9.2 Planning and Actions ................................................................................................ 58
5.9.2.1 Planning .............................................................................................................................................. 58
5.9.2.2 Actions ................................................................................................................................................ 59
5.10 During Storage .......................................................................................................... 61
5.10.1 General ...................................................................................................................... 61
5.10.1.1 Lithium Batteries ................................................................................................................................. 62
5.10.1.2 Lead-acid batteries ............................................................................................................................. 62
5.10.1.3 Fleet Management Systems and Data ................................................................................................ 62
5.11 Return to Service ....................................................................................................... 62
5.11.1 Planning and Preparation .......................................................................................... 62
5.11.2 Return to Service Safety and Functional Check........................................................ 63
5.11.2.1 Potable Water Truck Tanks ................................................................................................................. 64
5.12 Training ..................................................................................................................... 64
5.12.1 Human Performance .................................................................................................. 64
5.12.2 Staff Training ............................................................................................................ 64
5.12.3 Initial Training........................................................................................................... 65
5.12.4 Training Currency Extension .................................................................................... 65
5.12.5 Training Methods ...................................................................................................... 65
5.12.6 Training for Cargo Transported in Passenger Cabin ................................................. 66
5.13 Monitoring/Evaluation/Implementation/Feedback Committee................................. 66

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5 SOP for Ground Handling


Nepal Airlines Corporation-Ground Services Provider (NAC-GSP)
NAC-GSP has issued the procedures for the safely handling of flights as a preventive measure
during COVID-19 which is based on the recommendation from regulatory/authority bodies of
aviation and shall be followed till risk of COVID-19 subsist.

5.1 Passenger Check-in, Transfer, Gate Handling and Arrival Hall

5.1.1 Procedures
1. Passengers are requested to follow the foot print mark/floor markings in the floor while
remain at terminal building.
2. Ensure about wearing of appropriate face mask by all passengers before reporting to check-
in counter and mask will be provided to passenger if needed.
3. Ensure to distribute and fill Passenger Covid-19 Status Card, Public Health Passenger
Locator Form and Traveler Public Health Declaration Form to submit at TIA Health Desk
in arrival corridor and at Terminal Entrance through commercial Department. (Sample of
Form attached Appendix-1, 3, 4 and 5)
4. All passengers must have a body temperature check conducted before reporting to check-in
counter.
5. Monitoring of any passengers showing the following symptoms at any airport touch point;
 Fever
 Fatigue
 Persistent cough
 Shortness of breath
 Appears obviously unwell
6. As much as possible practice “Physical Distancing”.
7. Expand stanchions to allow for broader spacing of passengers at check-in areas.
8. Check-in supervisor/staff shall arrange pre seating of passengers viewing the social
distancing in the cabin during boarding and seating in the cabin.
9. Ensure Counter Sanitization before commencement of Check-in and boarding.
10. Advise all passengers to use face mask during all the way of their journey.
11. During passenger acceptance, all agents shall ask the below questions in addition to the
security questions to conduct as basic assessment;
 Have you been diagnosed or suspected to have pneumonia or COVID-19?
 Do you have any of the following symptoms: Fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat
or shortness of breath?
 Have you had any contact with a person infected with COVID-19 in last 14 days?
12. If the passenger answer is Yes to any above question, please refer below;
13. All check-in and boarding agents, including supervisory personnel shall ensure that they are
vigilant in identifying any passenger displaying above symptoms and if so, refer/report to
Supervisor/Airport Medical Help Desk/Airport Authority/Airport Security/ Concern
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Airlines procedure for a fit-to-fly clearance, ensuring all facts are provided (including
temperature) as Any body temperature reading above 100.4° F (38° Celsius) is to be
considered as a high temperature and there is a high likelihood that the passenger will
require offload from the flight.
14. Physical Distancing tent cards shall be displayed at counters at both check-in and boarding
gate outlining the requirement or social distancing. Tensa inserts shall be displayed within
queues to demonstrate our social distancing requirements.

15. The security personnel shall ensure the physical distancing of passengers maintaining at
least one meter between each other at check-in counters.
16. During boarding process, passengers shall be called forward in small numbers only in order
to maintain physical distancing, and carry on baggage will be limited for essential use.
17. Move portable boarding scanners for passengers to scan boarding cards, toward avoiding
the need for personnel to avoid handle boarding cards wherever possible and ask passengers
to hold up passport for inspection by gate agent.
18. Note: No identification/reconciliation process shall be compromised to achieve this. Gate
staff shall wear PPE in order to handle documents according to Airlines’ Manual
requirement, where the passenger their own documents does not satisfy the requirement.
19. Increased frequency of wiping down arm rests, seats, and backs of wheelchairs.
20. All care must be taken to ensure physical distancing is maintained during operation of
passenger coach during passenger Embarkation and Disembarkation.
 Ground staff must ensure that only limited number (30 pax per coach) of passengers
are boarded onto coaches at once.
 Ground staff must liaise with cabin crew and advise of an approximate number of
passengers (i.e. 30 pax per coach) that are permitted to board each coach, in order
for them to release passengers from aircraft with appropriate spacing.
 Ground staff must ensure physical distancing that a coach does not exceed 40% of
its normal capacity (i.e. 30 pax per coach)

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 ZONE boarding/other appropriate method shall be applied in order to maintain


physical distancing while boarding passengers in aircraft.
21. Arrival staff shall provide approval for disembarkation to cabin crew, ensuring that all
processes required by local authorities are completed before disembarkation can commence.
22. Once the aircraft has been cleaned, gate agents shall only step onboard the aircraft if
operationally required to do so to perform seat checks or other vital tasks.
23. Disinfection of Passenger Coach with completion of Disembarkation / Embarkation of
passenger of each Flight or after 03 transportations, if passenger number exceeds 150.
24. Each passenger Coach shall be in service for one flight at a time and all occupants should
wear masks maintaining social distancing during transport.
25. Only authorized allocate Coaches should be used.
26. Unruly passenger in COVID-19 pandemic context shall be handed to Nepal Police or
Airport Authority or informed to Airport Help Desk.
27. Transport of crew:
1. Pilots should be segregated from cabin crew.
2. Pilots should be seated on last 2 rows and there should be two rows separating
them from the cabin crew. Pilots should leave the bus last.
3. There should be a separation between driver and crew.
4. Social distancing should be maintained during transport.
28. If passenger will have to remain in the terminal for more than 2 hrs, pre packed food and
drinks will be provided.

5.1.2 Regulations for Carriage of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer in Passenger and Crew
Baggage
Carriage of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer in Passenger and Crew Baggage Paragraph 2.3.5.1 of
the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations sets out the allowances for passengers and crew to have
in their checked or carry-on baggage medicinal or toiletry articles, which may include articles
containing alcohol as follows:
2.3.5.1 Medicinal or Toiletry Articles and Aerosols in Division 2.2 Non-radioactive medicinal or
toiletry articles (including aerosols). The term “medicinal or toiletry articles” is intended to include
such items as hair sprays, perfumes, colognes and medicines containing alcohols. Aerosols in
Division 2.2, with no subsidiary hazard, for sporting or home use.
Note: The total net quantity of all such articles carried by each passenger or crew member under
the provisions of 2.3.5.1 must not exceed 2 kg or 2 L and the net quantity of each single article must
not exceed 0.5 kg or 0.5 L. Release valves on aerosols must be protected by a cap or other suitable
means to prevent inadvertent release of the contents.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is acceptable under the provisions of 2.3.5.1, however, it should be
noted that where passengers or crew wish to have the hand sanitizer in their carry-on baggage that
the limit of 100 mL or equivalent per item for liquids and gels in accordance with the aviation
security provisions applies.

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5.2 Baggage and Cargo Handling

5.2.1 Handling of Baggage


1. If any suspected passengers on board upon arrival, baggage of that flight shall be disinfected
using appropriate disinfection spray/materials.
2. As a preventive measure, random disinfection of arrival/departure baggage shall be done on
case basis to whatever extent possible.
3. Necessary announcement shall be made at baggage carousel hall to maintain physical
distancing by all passengers.

5.2.2 Handling Cargo from Affected Countries


The rationalized use and distribution of PPE when handling cargo from and to countries affected
by the COVID-19 outbreak shall comply these recommendations.
1. Facial masks and hand gloves shall be worn by concern staff while handling cargo.
2. Operational gloves are required for protection against mechanical hazards, such as when
manipulating rough surfaces.
3. The packages visibly dirty from blood or body fluids should be handled properly with proper
protection.
4. Importantly, the use of surgical gloves or any other type of gloves does not replace the need
for appropriate hand hygiene, which should be performed frequently.
5. Disinfecting of aircraft holds, supplies or ULDs will be as per local regulation
recommendations.

NOTE: To date, there is no epidemiological information to suggest that contact with goods or
products shipped from countries affected by the COVID-19 outbreak have been the source of
COVID-19 disease in humans.

5.2.3 Human Remains Transportation


The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a considerable death toll and has raised questions
regarding the repatriation of human remains where the person died of the disease overseas.
Generally human remains are not infectious and do not transmit disease. However, cadavers of
persons who have died from contagious diseases may pose risk of transmission, but at a lower level
than from living individuals except for viral hemorrhagic fever and prion diseases:
According to WHO and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control; there is no evidence
to date of persons having become infected from exposure to the bodies of persons who died from
COVID-19.
Transmission of COVID-19 related to the handling of infected remains could occur through direct
contact with body surfaces, tissues, fluids or their aspirates where the virus is present, or by direct
contact with contaminated surfaces, clothing or other personal effects. Best practices to avoid
COVID-19 infection under these circumstances include appropriate use of personal protective
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equipment (PPE) and thorough decontamination of surfaces and materials that have been in contact
with remains.
Points to be considered when managing COVID-19 human remains include:

 Providing specific guidance as to appropriate PPE for funeral directors, religious leaders or
others who may have direct contact with COVID-19 human remains, especially the
importance of hand hygiene and personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling
COVID-19 human remains;
 Respecting the dignity of the dead and their families according to cultural and religious
traditions;
 Encouraging practices that balance the rights of the family, the need to investigate the cause
of death, and the risks of exposure to infection on a cases-by-case basis.

5.2.3.1 Option for Air Transport


When a person has died from COVID-19 overseas, considerations for final disposition may include
on-site cremation or internment at the location of death or repatriation of human or cremated
remains to the State requested by the next-of-kin.
Many airlines provide services for the transport of cremated and non-cremated human remains.
These services vary according to the policies of each airline operator. In general, there are three
possible options for the transportation of human remains by air:
1. Cremated remains contained in a funeral urn, which is often the least complicated option.
However, this is dependent on the personal, cultural and religious beliefs of the bereaved as
well as national laws in the State of death;
2. Embalmed human remains enclosed in a sealed coffin. This option may be challenging since
States may have opposing laws about embalming. For instance, legislation in the departure
country may not allow embalming, while the destination country may require embalming
for repatriation of the remains. In addition, some aircraft operators will only accept
embalmed human remains. It should be noted that at the time of issue of this guidance,
WHO does not recommend the practice of embalming for COVID-19 remains to avoid
excessive manipulation of the body;
3. Human remains that have not been embalmed in an enclosed, sealed coffin. Specific
requirements for this type of transport may vary by country, and States of departure or
repatriation may not allow the export or import, as applicable, of non-embalmed remains.
Different Countries/States might have different requirements. It is therefore important to consider
several factors prior to deciding on the appropriate process for air transport. These factors include
being aware of the applicable regulations and / or rules of the departure and destination States,
including relevant documentation required as well as the requirements of the airline.

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References:
For detail information, refer to latest IATA Guidance for Ground Handling During COVID-19, the
Action Cargo: COVID-19 under the heading “Keeping air cargo flying” and then “Human remains
transport”.

5.3 Ramp Handling

5.3.1 General
Handling of GSE equipment should be done as normal. This is not considered to be a route of
transmission of this disease. Similarly, the handling of water and toilet waste does not change.
Sanitizing and cleaning of passenger and crew buses should be done regularly using standard
disinfectant agents such as 60% alcohol, hypochlorite or peroxide, and done on all high touch areas
likely to be contacted by a person potentially unwell.

5.3.2 Aircraft Arrival with Suspected COVID-19 Cases


When an aircraft arrives with a possible COVID-19 passenger or with an affected passenger and
Ramp Buses are required, assess the situation before-hand:
1. Provide and identify a limited number of buses for that service.
2. Use the same buses for the whole disembarkation service and disinfect once the process is
finalized.
3. Limit the number of passengers in the bus.

A proper communication protocol between the ground personnel and cock pit crew shall be defined
to avoid direct contact e.g., the Ramp Agent communicates with Cockpit through headsets to advise:
1. The stair/s at door have been securely placed.
2. The Ramp Agent will confirm the stair is secured and safe for disembarkation. The sequence
of disembarkation will depend on the location of the passenger relative to the doors and
should be designed to minimize contact between that person and other passengers.
3. Ground staff and cabin crew will agree on number of passengers to disembark at the given
time.
4. A hand signal shall be provided by both the cabin crew and ground staff once the agreed
limits are reached to maintain the “physical distancing”.
5. Once the process is agreed the buses and boarding devices shall be disinfected prior use for
the next process.
6. The risk of infection is avoided between the ground personnel on the one hand and the
passengers and crew from a flight with an infected person on the other hand.
7. Disinfection is done thoroughly.
8. Inform to Higher Authorities, TIA Medical Health Desk, Airport Authority, Airport
Security, Immigration and Customer Airlines Representatives about the suspected
passenger for necessary action.

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5.3.3 Aircraft Ground Movement


Based on the airport parking plan, once resumption of operations begins it is important to ensure
there is a well-coordinated aircraft movement plan to ensure there is no damage to the aircraft.

NOTE:
Ensure all procedures during aircraft ground movement are adhered to as documented in Chapter 4 of
IGOM.
Ensure during any non-normal operations, a robust safety risk assessment is performed, and implementation
of the mitigation plan is followed
Timely consultation with Airport operator regarding the aircraft movement

A. Actions Prior to Movement


If an aircraft must be towed from a parking position to an aircraft stand, prior to movement ensure:
1. Clearance has been granted by the technical team to move the aircraft
2. A thorough walkaround inspection is carried out to ensure there is no damage to the aircraft,
inspect:
• All cargo doors
• All access panels and servicing access points
• Aircraft fuselage
• Aircraft engine cowlings/propellers
• All cabin doors
NOTE: If any damages or abnormalities are observed, report immediately to the supervisor,
technical team or as per incident reporting channels. It is essential to have adequate lighting when
performing the walkaround check. If the lighting is insufficient, use a flashlight.
1. Give clearance for GSE to approach the aircraft in case servicing is required prior re-
positioning e.g. fuel truck, water truck and/or toilet truck, GPU etc.

Caution: Fueling/Defueling
• There is always a danger with fueling or defueling an aircraft, if the procedures are not
respected. It is imperative to follow the regulatory, the AMM, the JIG or A4A standards
where applicable.
• The airport should always be prepared for any emergency situation and emergency shut-
off system should never be obstructed and should be easily accessible.

1. An assessment shall be carried out prior to movement to ensure:


• The intended movement path is clear of all obstructions, taking into consideration the
wingspan, the tail tips, engine size, engine ground clearance, other aircraft parked in
proximity etc.
• The apron surface is sufficiently free of ice, snow, etc. to ensure safe movement.

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• Ensure the apron surface is not indented by aircraft wheels due to long period of
parking.

Caution: After long term parking, anticipate extra pull or push force required for aircraft wheels
to exit any indentations in the pavement and/or to overcome the aircraft tires being out of round.
This is to avoid shear-pin breakage and/or sudden movement in direction of travel. Refer to the
pushback and pull forward procedure. IGOM 4.6.10.2
1. The movement path is clear of all FOD and any loose equipment

NOTE: If any surface damages are observed liaise with the airport management team as per the
airport’s directives.

1. The number of persons required for safe movement and their role shall be agreed on prior
to movement (Refer to IGOM 4.6.10.4). All persons not involved in the movement
operations shall stay clear
2. Communication method for aircraft movement between the persons involved must be
agreed on prior to movement and must include:
• Review specifics of direction of movement and final positioning
• Review hand signals to be used including emergency signals

3. Review the applicable actions in the pre-departure table as documented in IGOM 4.6.5 and
ensure:
a) All GSE is detached, with the exception of push-back / tow tractor and towbar
b) All aircraft servicing panels and/or hatches are closed and secured.
c) Exception: External power and headset panels
d) Cabin and cargo doors handles are fully latched and flush with the fuselage and there is no
visible damage.
e) Items such as propeller straps and tail stands are removed.
f) Landing gear safety pins are removed.

g) Remove wheel chocks as per the wheel chock removal procedures IGOM 4.6.4 Caution:
1. The pushback vehicle must be connected prior to removal of the main landing gear
chock. The parking brakes of both the pushback vehicle and aircraft must be set. (Refer
to IGOM 4.6.10.5)
2. For tractor and tow bar / shear pin combination consider the aircraft type and weight.

B. Action During Movement


A responsible ground staff shall oversee each aircraft movement. Once clearance to move is given
by the flight crew or brake operator, this person shall:
1. Signal “All clear” to move to the pushback driver and wing walkers
2. Be in continuous communication with flight crew or the brake operator

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3. Has ultimate responsibility to review movement procedures based on conditions observed


and informed by the flight crew or the brake operator
4. If the responsible ground crew on the interphone is walking on the ramp, maintain visual
contact and ensure a safe distance is maintained from the nose gear during the entire
movement
5. Follow procedures as documented in IGOM 4.6.10.5 until the aircraft comes to a complete
stop.

C. Action After Positioning Upon Aircraft Stopping:


1. Position wheel chocks as per IGOM 4.2.1
2. Follow actions as documented in IGOM 4.1.2.2

5.4 Aircraft Disinfection Process


Aircraft disinfection process will be as per Integrated Process Flow Chart (ref: Chapter 1.6-
Integrated Procedure during COVID 19 Operations)

5.5 Waste Management


 All the inflight cabin waste and PPEs used by Flight Crew should be put inside the plastic
bag and seal properly.
 All the properly sealed waste bags should be disposed in airport’s designated dumping
area/container.

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5.6 Disinfection Requirements of GSE


SN GSE Condition Requirement Frequency

Carrying & embarking/ After completion of existing


Required
Ramp Bus & Pax disembarking Pax. / Crew flight
1 from the station of infected
Steps
Country

Required After completion of existing


Carrying Suspected Staff trip/flight
Carrying Suspected disabled Required After completion of existing trip
Pax/Crew/Staff

Carrying Suspected disabled Required After completion of existing trip


2 Ambulift Pax/Crew/Staff during
COVID-19 Pandemic period

At normal condition carrying After completion of existing trip


disabled Pax/Crew/Staff Required
Loading/ offloading After loading/offloading &
&carrying suspected carrying suspected
Aircraft Loading baggage/Dead Required
baggage/Dead body/suspected
& Baggage/ body/suspected Cargo Cargo
3
Cargo carrying
Equipment Loading/ offloading
&carrying normal baggage/ NA NA
Cargo

Lavatory Service During COVID-19 Pandemic After completion of existing


4 Required
Equipment Period service/flight

Required
5 Potable Water During COVID-19 Pandemic with chlorine After completion of existing
Truck Period water service/flight

Catering Service After completion of existing


6 During COVID-19 Pandemic Required
Truck service/flight
Period

Other service After completion of existing


Equipment If contamination is Suspected Required service/flight
7 At Normal Operation NA NA
*Note: Requirements are defined per guidelines of CANN/IATA/ICAO and WHO
**Note: Re-Usable PPEs wore by dis-infection team should be sterilized by dipping in detergent
and hot water or soaked in Diluted Bleach solution, rinse and dry it and reuse next day only.

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5.7 GSE Disinfection Procedure

5.7.1 Ramp Bus Disinfection Procedure.


a) Clean whole ramp bus with normal water and detergent externally before operation; if
required (Regular process).
b) Spray/fumigate with disinfection media(disinfectant) to the passenger/operator cabin
surfaces, seats (side, front and back) and hand grips/vertical wiling hanging bars.
Note: - Disinfection solution: - Chlorine (5% Solution) for Normal Operation and approved
disinfectant for applicable COVID-19 Pandemic Operation.
c) Repeat the activity (b) for each flight if deemed necessary.
d) Repeat the activity (a) daily basis before or after operation. (or as per the requirements).
e) Wait for minimum of 10 minutes after performing process (b).
f) Wipe/clean the passenger/operator cabin surfaces, seats (side, front and back) and hand
grips/vertical wiling hanging bars after process (e).
Note: - The cleaners themselves must be protected by using applicable PPEs.

5.7.2 Pax Step Disinfection Procedure.


a) Clean whole Pax step with normal water and detergent externally before operation; if
required (Regular process).
b) Spray/fumigate with disinfection media(disinfectant) to the passenger step surfaces, guide
rails and bars.
Note: - Disinfection solution: - Chlorine Solution (5% Solution) for Normal Operation and
approved disinfectant for applicable COVID-19 Pandemic Operation.
c) Repeat the activity (b) for each flight if deemed necessary.
d) Repeat the activity (a) daily basis before or after operation. (or as per the requirements).
e) Wait for minimum of 10 minutes after performing process (b).
f) Wipe/clean the step surface & cabin after performing process (e).

Note: - The cleaners themselves must be protected by using applicable PPEs.

5.7.3 Ambulift Disinfection Procedure.


a) Clean whole Ambulift with normal water and detergent externally before operation; if
required (Regular process).
b) Spray/fumigate with disinfection media(disinfectant) to the ambulift’s/operator cabin
surfaces, cabin wall surface, stretcher, wheelchairs, step surfaces, Seats (side, front and
back), guide rail and hanging bars.
Note: - Disinfection solution: - Chlorine (5% Solution) for Normal Operation and
approved disinfectant for applicable COVID-19 Pandemic Operation.
c) Repeat the activity (b) for each flight if deemed necessary.
d) Repeat the activity (a) daily basis before or after operation. (or as per the requirement).
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e) Wait for minimum of 10 minutes after performing process (b).


f) Wipe/clean the after performing process (e).
Note: - The cleaners must be protected by using applicable PPEs.

5.7.4 Aircraft Loading & Baggage/ Cargo carrying equipment Disinfection Procedure.
a) Clean whole Aircraft Loading & Baggage/ Cargo carrying equipment with normal water
and detergent externally before operation; if required (Regular process).
b) Spray/fumigate with disinfection media(disinfectant) to the equipment’s cabin, surfaces,
guide rails and bars.
Note: - Disinfection solution: - Chlorine (5% Solution) for Normal Operation and
approved disinfectant for applicable COVID-19 Pandemic Operation.
c) Repeat the activity (b) for each flight if deemed necessary.
d) Repeat the activity (a) daily basis before or after operation. (or as per the requirements)
e) Wait for minimum of 10 minutes after performing process (b).
f) Wipe/clean the equipment’s cabin, surfaces, guide rails and bars after performing process
(b).
Note: - The cleaners themselves must be protected by using applicable PPEs.

5.7.5 Lavatory Service Equipment Disinfection Procedure.


A. Disinfection
a) Inject Disinfection solution (About 0.5 Liters) into the Lavatory Tank of the truck.
b) Spray Disinfection Solution into the Lavatory receptacle hose/ coupling of Lavatory Truck.

Note: - Disinfection solution: - Chlorine (5% Solution) for Normal Operation and
approved disinfectant for applicable COVID-19 Pandemic Operation.
c) Repeat activity (b) for each operation if deemed necessary.
d) Repeat activity (a) daily before or after operation.
e) Leave the Lavatory waste tank a minimum 1/2 hours performing after activity (a).
f) Discharge the Lavatory waste from the truck to the allocated drain point in the Air Side area.
g) Rinse the Lavatory tank of the truck with normal water internally.
h) Clean the whole Lavatory Truck with normal water and detergent externally.
i) Clean the Operators cabin during process (h).
Note: - The cleaners themselves must be protected by using applicable PPEs.

B. Lavatory Truck Operation for Providing Services. (Performed by


GSEO Section)
a) Position the truck as per the SOP.
b) Apply/Connect hose coupling to aircraft servicing point.
c) Drain the Lavatory content from the aircraft lavatory servicing point.
d) Perform the activity A (c).
e) Go for the next service.
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C. Discharge of Lavatory from the Lavatory Truck Tank (Performed


by the GSEO Section)
a) If the tank is nearly filled (75% filled) Perform the activity 1 (a).
b) The activity C (a) is followed by shaking of the tank for mixing the solution with the
Lavatory content.
c) Drain the Lavatory content as specified in A (f).
Note: - The Operator, Sprayer and Sweeper themselves must wear /use PPE during
the process.

D. Parking after whole operation/ services (Performed by GSEO


section)
a) If required, Perform the process as specified in A (g).
b) If required performed A (h).
c) Pre-charge the Lavatory Truck Tank with Disinfection Solution (about 0.5 liters) and close
the cover
d) Park Separately at an allocated parking area/stand as per the SOP maintaining adequate
distance from Potable Water Truck.
Warning: - Do not spill/leak the lavatory content during service.
Caution: - If the spillage/ leakage of lavatory content, spray with disinfection solution.
1. Potable Water Truck Disinfection Procedure.
a) Clean/Sterilize Water truck as per the SOP before operation (regular process).
b) Spray/fumigate with disinfection media(disinfectant) to the cabin & outer surface of
the unit with specified chlorine solution.
Note: - Disinfection solution: - Chlorine Solution (5% Solution) only.
c) Repeat the activity (b) for each flight if deemed necessary.
d) Repeat the activity (a) periodically as per the SOP.
e) Wait for a minimum of 10 minutes after performing process (b).
f) Wipe/clean the cabin & outer surface of the unit after performing process (e).
Note: - The cleaners themselves must be protected by using applicable PPEs.

2. Other Service Equipment (Push Back Truck, GPU, ASU, ACU, Fork Lift,
Maintenance Plate Form & etc.) Disinfection Procedure.
a) Clean whole equipment with normal water and detergent externally before operation;
if required (Regular process).
b) Spray/fumigate with disinfection media(disinfectant) to the equipment’s surfaces,
operator console, cabin, receptacle hose/ coupling, guide rails and bars.
Note: - Disinfection solution: - Chlorine Solution (5% Solution) for Normal Operation
and approved disinfectant for applicable COVID-19 Pandemic Operation.
c) Repeat the activity (a) daily basis before or after operation. (or as per the requirement)
d) Wait for a minimum 10 minutes after performing process (b).

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e) Wipe/clean equipment’s surfaces, operator console, cabin, receptacle hose/ coupling,


guide rails and bars after performing process (c).
Note: - The cleaners themselves must be protected by using applicable PPEs.

5.8 ULD Handling

5.8.1 General Procedures


a) Before placing into storage, all rubbish and/or ancillary accessories not permanently
attached to the ULD shall be removed from the ULDs.
b) ULDs (except for forklift able ULDs) shall never be stored directly on the ground but on a
suitable ULD base support system.
c) Containers shall always be stored base downwards and pallets horizontally.
d) ULDs should be segregated by ULD Type Code.
e) If ULDs of different airlines / ULD owners are stored, ULDs should be segregated by
airlines / ULD owners.
f) Container doors must be fully restrained.
g) Pallet nets and cargo straps shall not be exposed to damaging environments such as direct
sunlight (U.V.), water (humidity), and freezing temperature to prevent environmental
degradation.
h) ULDs shall be sheltered whenever possible.
i) Storage area for unserviceable ULDs shall be clearly marked and the damaged units
segregated from serviceable units and tagged in accordance with AHM 420 Attachment ‘E’.
j) Once placed into storage, all required locks or stops shall be engaged to prevent ULD from
unintended further movement.
k) Do not forget to update and maintain ULD stock control data accordingly.

5.8.2 Loading ULDs into Parked Aircraft


NAC-GSP shall perform a safety risk assessment and refer to instructions in the aircraft Weight and
Balance Manual (WBM) even for parked aircraft.
a) The loading and installing of ULDs on board should only be performed by trained,
experienced and authorized staff.
b) Ensure only serviceable ULDs are loaded to avoid damages to the aircraft.
c) Follow the WBM requirements and ensure only ULDs that are approved for the intended
aircraft are loaded.
d) On parked aircraft, ULDs shall be empty.
e) In the case that the parked aircraft has to move (e.g. towing, pushback) and if the stored
ULDs are not fully restrained, the ULDs may suddenly move not only causing ULD
damages but also damages to the aircraft (e.g. cargo linings, ceiling). Therefore, airlines are
encouraged to restrain all the ULDs as per WBM instructions.
f) In the case of Cargo Loading System malfunctions, refer to WBM – Limitations.

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g) Follow the WBM requirements and ensure ULDs are fully engaged with the Cargo Loading
System (e.g. locks are raised) like installing ULDs for a departing flight.
*Exceptions - If the airlines can guarantee that the aircraft will remain complete parked without
movement and/ or can guarantee unrestrained ULDs will not cause any damage to the aircraft or
personnel, unrestrained ULDs may be accepted on parked aircraft subject to the safety risk
assessment performed by the airlines.

For Additional Information on ULD storage:


 Refer to ULDR Section 6, Operating Specification 6/00 for requirements for ULD
Serviceability Check;
 Refer to ULDR Section 7, Standard Specification 40/3 as well as Appendix ‘H’ for standard
formats of ULD Operational Damage Limits Notice (ODLN) and the illustration of the ULD
components listed on a typical container ODLN

5.8.3 Stacking ULDs


In the case of loading and storing stacked pallets, stacked pallets shall be carried, as cargo items
following WBM requirement, onto a base pallet under the following requirements: (see ULDR OS
6/01 Section 8.7)

a) The base pallet shall be serviceable and approved by the WBM.


b) Only pallets of the same size or smaller size than the base pallet shall be stacked on the base
pallet; if pallets of smaller size are stacked, these should all be of the same smaller size.
c) An intermediate floor of wooden pallets shall be laid onto the base pallet in order to leave a
free space all around, on a height of at least 10 cm (4 in), this being the interface area with
aircraft CLS hardware.
d) If nets of stacked pallets are not removed, the net of each pallet shall be disentangled and
laid flat within its surface, without any part of it protruding, hanging out, or bearing on an
edge rail.
e) Refer to the aircraft WBM, WBM Supplement, or airlines’ instructions based on it, for the
restraint of the stacked pallets.
f) Ensure a clearance of 51 mm (2 in) between the contour of the loaded pallet (pallet, pallet
equipment and load items) and:
I. The cargo door
II. The adjacent ULD
III. The cargo holds sidewalls and ceiling

NOTE: The clearance requirement does not apply to the distance between ULD
baseplates.

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5.8.4 Stacking ULDs of Different Types


a) In cases of an excess of containers with smaller base size (mainly K-size base) such
containers could also be loaded onto a larger size pallet and restrained by using the correct
pallet net and/ or straps. For example, two AKE can be stored on top of a PMC if proper
restraint devices are used.
b) Before loading onto the aircraft, all rubbish and/or ancillary accessories not permanently
attached to the ULD shall be removed from the ULDs. For long term storage of ULDs
inside an aircraft the ULDs must be free of clutter and other items.
c) Do not store ULDs that are not owned by the airlines on board the aircraft unless approved
by the ULD owner. The last two alpha-numeric characters of the ULD ID Code indicate
the owner of the ULD (see ULDR Section 4, Standard Specification 40/1; CSC Resolution
686).
d) The normal ULD inventory procedures should be followed and ULD stock control data
should be maintained and updated accordingly. It is recommended the ULD ID Codes
associated with the respective aircraft as well as the ULD positions be recorded.

5.9 GSE Storage


These procedures provide a quick reference and general guide for formally taking GSE Out of
Operational Use (OOU), how to manage it while OOU and steps to return it to service.

5.9.1 Preparation
5.9.1.1 General Principles
a) Parking GSE for a long time without taking certain basic steps can lead to potential
problems and down-stream costs when it is needed again.
b) The primary aim of the preparations is to preserve the active GSE fleet in a safe and fully
functional condition, so that it is easy and quick to return to operation and safe to use,
with least possible cost.
c) The first point of reference for correct storage procedures should be the equipment
manufacturers’ (OEM) guidelines. Most GSE OEM manuals have a section describing
storage procedures (which might vary depending on the storage period) that users can
reference. These supersede any content of this guideline.
d) If local regulations and procedures are more prescriptive or do not allow the application
of these best practices, then they will have precedence over this guideline.

5.9.2 Planning and Actions


5.9.2.1 Planning
GSE storage plans can involve either:
a) Complete deactivation.
b) An “exercise” regime whereby units are started and moved according to a plan.
c) A planned rotation of units to distribute the utilization of the fleet, or
d) Some combination of these strategies.

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*It is recommended to develop a GSE fleet storage strategy and perform the activities described
below (as applicable). Ideally, it is recommended to develop a return to service plan at the same
time as the storage plan. In this scenario the storage actions are paired with the corresponding
actions to return the unit to service.
Control of small items such as by-pass pins, tow-bar fuses etc. needs to be part of the storage
plan.

5.9.2.2 Actions
a) Park GSE in a centrally controlled area and under cover and CCTV surveillance wherever
possible.
b) Ensure all doors and windows are closed and secured
c) Ensure exposed operational panels are covered to protect them from various climatic
conditions such as rain, sun and dust
d) Depending on climate, vents can be open to allow air to circulate but this should be
weighed against the possibility of mold, fungus, infestations such as vermin / insects /
birds, as well as ingress of sand, dust, snow, water
e) Secure all accessories and hoses, cables, covers etc.
f) (f) Inflate all tires to the maximum recommended pressure – unless the unit is to be stored
on blocks with wheels off the ground
g) Ensure all fluids are at the correct level unless the manufacturer’s documentation indicates
otherwise.
h) Where possible, chock the vehicle to prevent it rolling away. A parking brake can seize
in the ON position if set. Decision to set the parking brake or not is to be guided by
manufacturer documentation, experience with the specific piece of equipment, nature of
the parking area in terms of slope etc.
i) Minimize exposed lengths of hydraulic cylinder rods by moving all platforms, booms,
stabilizers etc. such that the rods are in the fully retracted position.
j) If possible, coat exposed hydraulic rams with a preserving fluid or grease.
k) Protect unpainted metal surfaces such as roller chains, lift chains, sprockets with rust
preventative.
l) Drain air brake tanks of all water residue.
m) If GSE is equipped with telematics, disconnect the main batteries to avoid draining the
battery when in storage.
n) Ensure all ignition / power systems are off or isolated.
o) Protect against unauthorized usage by removing keys (if keyed ignition) or by appropriate
kits to lock out/ tag out.
p) For potable water truck tanks – Refer to WHO guidance and IATA IDQP policy - see
Airport Handling Manual (AHM 440);
i. Try to rotate the potable water trucks (based on a timescale that does not require
the full scale taking into service procedures) or downscale operations by keeping
only certain trucks in service while taking others OOU.
ii. Potable water trucks water tanks shall be kept empty and dried as much possible.
iii. Level indicators, if installed, shall be removed to be cleaned and dried and shall
be kept dried in place.

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iv. If stored filled, the tank shall be filled with water to maximum leaving no space
for possibility of growth of any microbial agent. The water shall be dosed with
adequate chlorine, chlorine dioxide or hydrogen dioxide.
v. All vents should be closed/sealed tightly to avoid infestations such as vermin /
insects / birds, as well as ingress of sand, dust, snow, water.
vi. All hoses and hose connectors must be end capped. Where no end cap is
available, the hose shall be covered with a clean rag and plastic over the rag. Tie
both, the rag and plastic to the hose tightly using safety wire. Hoses may be
placed in disinfection solution provided the service provider has a replacement
program as per the local procedures. If installed, all filters shall be removed, and
filter support kept empty and dried.
vii. All equipment shall be kept stored in a cool and dry place.
viii. All records, filter replacement records, replacement of disinfection solution
records, shall be retained and be made available to the airline/authority if/when
requested.
q) For lavatory unit tanks – these should be emptied, cleaned and left to air dry with hatch
left partially open but covered to prevent ingress of any foreign objects.
r) For fuel truck tanks – Refer to local safety regulations. Could depend on type of fuel
stored. If tanks are emptied, they should also be degassed to remove any flammable
gasses.
s) De-icing anti icing equipment – These are typically stored for the warm season(s) – unless
otherwise directed, follow the OEM guidance for the normal storage season.
t) For towbars, grease where appropriate (especially for moving mechanisms such as towbar
head-locks pins, etc.) and cover properly to avoid any corrosion.
*Caution: Plastic sheeting creates condensation which can lead to rust and pitting of metals as
well as deterioration of electronic components and electrical contacts.
D. Equipment with Internal Combustion Engines
a) It is recommended to keep fuel tanks filled as this prevents condensation and micro-
bacterial growth. However, this must be a local decision based on local regulations,
climatic conditions (if seasons are changing from cold to hot weather, the fuel tank should
only be partially filled to allow for expansion without overflow of fuel as temperatures
rise), expected duration of OOU period and cost.
b) Disconnect the battery – after checking the manual for any specific precautions.
c) Ensure DEF fluid does not freeze during prolonged periods of inactivity during cold
weather. DEF fluid tanks could have heaters connected to the battery which can deplete
the battery. Consider draining the DEF tank if the battery is to be disconnected
d) Check OEM manual for any specific measures to take regarding emissions equipment.
E. Electrically Powered GSE
a) Batteries need to be kept in dry, cool, frost free conditions – extremes of heat and cold
are not good for batteries.
b) Where possible / available, follow the guidance of the battery manufacturer regarding
storage.
c) For lithium battery powered units;
i. The lithium battery should be kept with a reasonable charge
ii. Where possible leave plugged in
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iii. Where not possible, turn off the master disconnect on the equipment
iv. If the lithium battery is provided with a power switch, that should be switched to
OFF the position to prevent discharge from the battery’s electronics
d) For lead acid battery powered units:
i. Disconnect from the charger system unless otherwise advised.
ii. Turn off the master disconnect on the equipment.
iii. Chargers shouldn’t need any attention but if not in use, should be shut off at main
disconnect.

5.10 During Storage

5.10.1 General
Follow your storage plan.
Example 1: If rotating the fleet, swap a parked serviceable GSE with another serviceable one in
operation. Do this in in an organized way according to the plan. This way you can distribute the
utilisation evenly within your fleet.
Example 2: If “exercising” the fleet, start equipment periodically (once a week if possible), and,
taking precautions, move it around to prevent flat spots developing on tyres, (this also applies for
vehicles with solid tyres). Use the hydraulic and brake systems to circulate fluids and keep seals
flexible.
GSE under different storage / parking regimes should be identified to ensure only those intended
for use are used. This can be accomplished by means of tags, key controls, differentiated parking
areas or similar control measures:
a) Fix units when they breakdown whenever possible. Try to avoid swapping a defective
unit with a parked but serviceable one as this leads to situations where you may end up
with all unserviceable units and it becomes difficult to identify which unit had what issue.
b) Avoid cannibalisation of parts, as much as possible. Only swap spare parts from another
GSE if the equipment is absolutely critical for operation and the spare part is not in your
stock (or the lead time is unknown). Cannibalising leads to uncontrolled repair activity
and duplication of effort/labour.
c) If possible, under the local circumstances, consider using this time to catch up on
maintenance and repairs.
d) If possible, check all stored units weekly for overall state of readiness
i. Monitor for leaks, flat tires, nesting birds, mice, rats and other infestations such as
ants, bees, wasps etc.
ii. Check for water infiltration in cabs / compartments after rain and prevent any
development of mould, fungus etc.
iii. Check all drain holes are clear to prevent build-up of pools of water and
accumulation of rotting vegetation leading to rust and mold.
e) If not already done as part of the Preparations phase, develop a return to service plan
based on the storage plan. Ensure sufficient stock of fluids, filters and other spare parts
is on hand at the commencement of return to service so the process can run smoothly and
not cause service delays.

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5.10.1.1 Lithium Batteries


a) Depending on the condition of the batteries and the initial charge level, these batteries
could be good for up to 6 months with no charging, after that they should be checked for
charge levels.

5.10.1.2 Lead-acid batteries


a) Check water levels and freshen charge of the batteries at least every 3 months but more
frequently if possible.
b) Check lead-acid batteries for build-up of corrosive powders at terminals and around the
battery cells, clean as necessary.

5.10.1.3 Fleet Management Systems and Data


In terms of PMI (preventive maintenance and inspection) consider revising the maintenance
schedule when GSE is placed in storage to account for it being out of use.

Calendar regulated services (e.g. monthly checks become irrelevant if units are not used for
several months) could be stopped or moved over to time (typically hours) in use measures if the
units are to be “exercised” regularly. For example, if a unit is stored today and is due a PMI in 6
weeks’ time, then the PMI is either done upon reactivation or 6 weeks after reactivation or after
a certain number of hours equivalent to 6 weeks of use has passed. This should be a local
maintenance manager decision, in collaboration with regional fleet managers, based upon several
factors including whether the unit has been started and exercised during the storage period, the
number of available maintenance staff, climatic conditions and cost implications.

A record should be kept of all that was done to each unit when it was put into storage. Record
should also be kept of each time the unit is exercised or rotated with another unit. This will
facilitate a quick return to service with reliable equipment.

5.11 Return to Service

5.11.1 Planning and Preparation


a) The actions necessary to return GSE to full-time service depends on how long the unit
was stored, how it was stored as well as whether or not it was rotated or “exercised” during
the storage period.
b) If not already done, develop a GSE return to service plan based on the record of all actions
taken as part of the storage plan as well as the expected ramp up of operations as the
situation returns to normal.
c) Plan to start returning units to service ahead of actual return of air traffic so that there are
enough units to meet initial days’ demand. Include in the plan the need to reinstate GSE
maintenance staff early to enable timely completion of critical return to service activities.
d) At airports where there are significant numbers of parked aircraft, be prepared for the
need for aircraft tow tractors / pushback tractors ahead of the return of air traffic.
e) Put in place measures to ensure cleanliness of high common use touch points on GSE.

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f) Ensure adequate supplies of parts and fluids that are expected to be needed to reinstate
out of operational use (OOU) GSE are on hand prior to starting the return to service
program.
g) Ensure Airside Vehicle Passes (AVPs) are valid for the GSE that are being returned to
service. Where these are dependent on currency of preventative maintenance and
inspection regimes, it is recommended that airport authorities recognize PMI schedules
that have been adjusted to account for reduced usage (or no usage) of the equipment. (h)
Ensure that all GSE personnel who will need operator / driver licences and access permits
for the airside and the GSE storage areas will have these available in time or that
arrangements have been made for validity extensions, before the start of the return to
service program.
h) Ensure that all necessary training / recurrent training has been done and/or necessary
arrangements have been made for validity extensions.

5.11.2 Return to Service Safety and Functional Check

As a minimum, it is strongly recommended that all GSE that is returned to service should have a
full safety and functional check completed by qualified and competent GSE maintenance staff.
The check should include:
a) Where available and the storage period was long enough to trigger it, utilize the
Equipment Preoperational Checklist or similar document from the manufacturer.
b) Walk around the equipment, check for nests, blocked intake and exhaust pipes, flat tires,
chewed wires, hoses, fuel lines, evidence of leaks and any other obvious signs that the
equipment is not ready for use.
c) Ensure battery terminals are correctly connected in terms of polarity.
d) Check the OEM manual before “jump starting” or boosting the battery from an outside
power source to avoid possible costly damage to electronic systems due to voltage spikes
/ surges. Where possible charge the battery with an external charger.
e) Before starting / moving the equipment, check tire pressures, and all fluid levels. Remove
blocks if GSE was stored with wheels off the ground.
f) If the engine, transmission and / or hydraulic systems were treated for long term storage,
follow the reinstatement to service procedures specified by the preservative protocol /
OEM manual.
g) Clean off any sliding surfaces such as rams etc. that have been coated with preservatives.
h) If the vehicle/equipment is fitted with sensors these will need to be cleaned to ensure
proper functionality.
i) Check OEM manuals regarding towing procedures prior to towing any disabled GSE –
some modern transmissions / drivetrains do not allow for towing or can only be towed
within very limited speed / distance parameters – the consequences of not following the
OEM precautions can be expensive transmission / drivetrain failures.
j) Once the unit is started, allow the brake system to build up to operating pressure (air
brakes).
k) Move off very slowly and apply brakes within a meter or so to ensure brakes are working.
l) During a short drive, check for unusual noises, unusual smells (e.g. burning), pulling to
one side during pull off / driving / braking, erratic power delivery, amongst others. Stop
and check for any leaks, smoke etc.
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m) For GSE fitted with any proximity sensing and warning systems, check that these are
operating correctly before servicing an aircraft.
n) Start and run air conditioning units (ACUs) to atmosphere and air supply units (ASUs) in
bypass mode before connecting to an aircraft to ensure no debris (e.g. bird nests etc.) that
might have entered the hoses or ducts, gets blown into the aircraft ducts.
o) As GSE is returned to service, ensure the GSE parking / storage area is cleared of all
debris such as improvised chocks, discarded materials etc. so that the area is not a source
of FOD.
p) The return to service safety and functional check should be recorded in the maintenance
record system.
q) Reinstate the normal PMI program as units return to operation.

5.11.2.1 Potable Water Truck Tanks


For potable water truck tanks, the following guidelines and references have been provided by the
IATA Drinking-Water Quality Pool (IDQP):
a) All tanks, hoses and accessories shall be cleaned according to the usual procedures in
effect under normal operations.
b) Ensure all devices are re-installed on the vehicle e.g. level indicator, filter support.
c) Water sampling shall be done and passed according to usual procedures in effect under
normal operations.
d) Re-instate the normal record keeping regime.

5.12 Training
5.12.1 Human Performance
Our staff is our biggest asset and every company has a duty to protect them and support them
during these difficult times. It is important to remember that many people are worried about their
health, reduced hours and employment uncertainty - all while they are conducting an operational
task, which might have been changed due to the COVID-19 measures or new tasks they have not
performed before e.g. parking of aircraft in close proximity. In order to mitigate and reduce the
likelihood of any unwanted event during both routine and non-routine operations a risk-based
approach is recommended.

5.12.2 Staff Training


Train all staffs with reasonably anticipated occupational exposure to SARS-CoV-2 about the
sources of exposure to the virus, the hazards associated with that exposure, and appropriate
workplace protocols in place to prevent or reduce the likelihood of exposure. Training should
include information about how to isolate individuals with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 or
other infectious diseases, and how to report possible cases.
Frontline Staffs required to use PPE must be trained. This training includes when to use PPE;
what PPE is necessary; how to properly don (put on), use, and doff (take off) PPE; how to
properly dispose of or disinfect, inspect for damage, and maintain PPE; and the limitations of
PPE.

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5.12.3 Initial Training


No person may perform a task for which they do not hold a record of training. There is no any
exemption or reduction in content and initial training shall be conducted in full as per the NAC-
GSP GOM-I or, as a minimum, according to the ground operations training program as specified
in IATA AHM Chapter 11. All newly recruited staff shall be trained according to policy of NAC-
GSP before allocating on duty.

5.12.4 Training Currency Extension


NAC-GSP shall follow the instructions/recommendations of authority/regularity regarding the
training currency extension in the pandemic period of COVID-19. The training currency
extension shall be done through approval from ECM (Accountable Executive of NAC-GSP) after
the evaluation of Safety Risk Assessment. As an exemption, the currency extension period of
training shall be twelve months from the first lockdown day 24th March 2020 but not exceeding
36 months from commencement of training date due to increasing trend of pandemic COVID-19
and unpredictable situation on lockdown period by Government of Nepal. This exemption period
is also based on the recommendation of IATA AHM Chapter 11 that recurrent training shall take
place within 36 months from the training date and NAC-GSP has provision for the recurrent
training within 24 months. (Ref. NAC-GSP Part-1, ORM/Chapter 5/Training and Qualifications).
All the recurrent trainings (mandatory/functional/DGR) shall be planned and conducted as soon
as alleviation of COVID-19 or within 23rd March 2021.
NAC-GSP is serving as a ground handing agent with the collaboration of different departments
of Nepal Airlines whose work nature and types of training are very different from each other.
Similarly, all the trainings and documentations are being conducted and maintained separately as
per the requirement of department. Hence, the exemption on currency extension of training can
be done separately by own departments as per the requirements and documentation shall be done
accordingly.

5.12.5 Training Methods


The biggest focus should be given to alternative methods of training such as: online (web)
training, virtual training concluding with an online test, training provided via smart phones and
other types of distance learning, in order to keep as many personnel qualified as possible. These
methods allow complete training remotely (e.g. from home), at any time, on any time zone and it
reduces demands on trainers’ availability. If companies set up such training in advance, it will
help them to manage the expected big training demand for newly hired staff once traffic starts to
return. However, it is important to stress that these methods will not replace the practical element
of the training and On the Job Training, competence assessment etc. that will need to take place
as our personnel return to work.
Hence, NAC-GSP also shall follow the alternative training methods; online (web) training, virtual
training concluding with an online test, training provided via smart phones and other types of
distance learning to keep the staff up to date on all types of training/briefings as far as possible.
Considering the pandemic situation of COVID-19 and looking the available facilities of NAC-
GSP, the initial training can be conducted as a class room training with limited number of
participants i.e. not exceeding the 12 persons per class.

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5.12.6 Training for Cargo Transported in Passenger Cabin


Many of the operators are changing passenger aircraft to cargo aircraft or are transporting cargo
in the passenger cabin. It is important that load control personnel, as well as cargo and ramp staff
are properly trained for these operations. Such training should come from the relevant operator,
based on their own procedures.
NAC-GSP shall provide the training for cargo transported in passenger cabin to concern staff as
per the requirement of customer airlines.

5.13 Monitoring/Evaluation/Implementation/Feedback Committee


A committee comparing of following members shall be formed as “Ground Handling COVID-
19 Crisis Management Committee” to monitor/evaluate/implement the above
procedures/things mentioned in this bulletin. The team may invite experts or other members to
analyze/feedback the crisis and may formulate and submit for necessary approval to Executive
Chairman/authority/government as per the requirement.
Committee Members:
Mr. Janak Raj Kalakheti Director, Customer Services Department (Coordinator)
Mr. Doleshwor koirala Director, Ground Support Department
Mr. Anil Ghimire Dy. Director, Passenger Handling Division
Ms. Rina Rai Dy. Director, Airport Services Division
Mr. Raj Kumar Shrestha Dy. Director, GE Division
Mr. Mukesh Man Pradhan Chief Station Manager, Int./CSD (Member Secretary)
For the liaison work with all stakeholders for the coordination/ monitoring/ evaluation/
implementation and feedback, the member secretary will act as a focal person and in case of his
absence, higher management Dy. Director/Director of Customer Services Department will do all
liaison work.

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TABLE OF CONTENT

6 SOP FOR FLIGHT OPERATIONS ........................................................ 69


6.1 Standard for Grade Level of Flight Infection Risks and Principles of Diseases
Prevention and Control ........................................................................................................ 69
6.2 Temperature screening ....................................................................................... 69
6.3 Categorization of flights ..................................................................................... 69
6.3.1 Low- Risk flight: ................................................................................................ 69
6.3.2 Medium -Risk flight: .......................................................................................... 71
6.3.3 High-Risk flight: ................................................................................................ 71
6.3.4 Handling of in-flight suspected case(s) .............................................................. 74
6.3.5 Obligations for aircraft operators, airlines and aircraft with suspected case(s) on
board. 76
6.3.6 Disinfection of the aircraft ................................................................................. 76
6.3.6.1 Disinfection method 1: Preflight/Post-flight ............................................................................... 77
6.3.6.2 Disinfection method 3: Top- of-descent ..................................................................................... 77
6.4 Introduction to Operation and Training Plan ..................................................... 78
6.4.1 In-flight Contingencies ....................................................................................... 78
6.4.2 In-flight Medical Emergencies ........................................................................... 79
6.4.3 Crew facilitation ................................................................................................. 79
6.4.4 Aircraft Dispatch Conditions ............................................................................. 79
6.5 Recent Experience Requirements....................................................................... 79
6.6 Crew Training Program ...................................................................................... 80
6.6.1 IOCC Actions ..................................................................................................... 80
6.7 Minimum Cabin Crew in Cabin on Cargo flights .............................................. 80
6.8 Medical Assessment Validity Extension ............................................................ 80
6.9 Area, Route & Aerodrome Qualifications.......................................................... 81
6.10 DGR Training Validity Extension...................................................................... 81
6.11 PPC Validity Extension...................................................................................... 81
6.11.1 Extension of FDP – FRA Form .......................................................................... 82
6.11.2 Risk Assessment for Lack of Recency in Knowledge, Skills, Training &
Assessments ..................................................................................................................... 83

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6 SOP for Flight Operations


6.1 Standard for Grade Level of Flight Infection Risks and Principles of
Diseases Prevention and Control
The operation of flight has to be categorized into the three levels namely High-risk flight,
Medium-risk flight and Low-risk flight and differentiated prevention and control measures
should be applied after a comprehensive evaluation of the outbreak at the place of origins
of the flights, whether the aircraft is equipped with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA)
filters and other indicators such as load factors, flight time and mission of the flights.
Risk level should be subject to dynamic adjustment in line with the development of the
outbreak.

The level of risk will be assessed by the Operational Control Center (OCC) Manager before
the flight, preferably at least a day before the flight. The crew complement should
comprise minimum number of cabin crew (A320: 4 and A330: 8) required for that certain
aircraft type, unless of special operational requirement.

6.2 Temperature screening


Non-touch body infrared thermometer (calibrated) should be used to measure the body
temperature of passengers at different times of flights. One should immediately report to
the P-I-C and respond in case of ill passengers found with symptoms including fever
(>37.3◦C /100◦ F), fatigue or dry cough, etc. then cooperate with the local health authorities
in the handover of the ill passengers. For all type of category of flight during COVID-19 period,
the measurement temperature should be carried out before the boarding of passengers’ body.

6.3 Categorization of flights


6.3.1 Low- Risk flight:
- Crew should wear disposable medical masks (up to YY/T0969-2013 or equivalent
standards) or facial masks of a higher standard.
- Crew should follow the guideline provided by World Health Organization (WHO)
when and how to wear the medical masks safely as follows:
• When crew, passenger or any other personnel involved directly operations of
flight show the symptoms such as Fever, Coughing, Sneezing, running nose
and difficulty in breathing.
• Crew should follow the following procedure as shown in Table 1 as per WHO
guidelines.

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Table1: WHO safety guidelines on how to wear the mask


(Source: World Health Organization)

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- Food preparing procedures should be simplified, pre-packaged food should be provided


and cold meal and ice should be canceled to reduce exposure risks and avoid cross-
infection
- Lavatory should be cleaned every 2 hours (or anytime considered necessary, similarly
hereinafter) during flight and once finished, hands should be timely cleaned and
disinfected also should clean galley surface regularly.
- Cabin crew should be limited to certain area and should not mix between cabin during
the flight unless for an emergency.

6.3.2 Medium -Risk flight:


- Crew should wear surgical masks (up to YY0469-2011 or equivalent standard) or
masks of higher standard.
- In-flight service same as in Low-Risk flight.

6.3.3 High-Risk flight:


- All operating crew as well as staff who need to go to the aircraft should undertake
all necessary effort to maintain the prescribed distance from travelling passengers
as well as themselves. Flight crew should wear surgical masks or masks of a higher
standard and goggles, and change facial masks every 4 hours in general (or anytime
considered necessary, similarly hereinafter). Cabin Crew should wear N95
particulate matter protection facial masks (upto GB2626-2006 or equivalent
standard) or medical protection masks (upto GB 19083-2010 or equivalent
standard), goggles and disposable rubber gloves and change facial masks (if
surgical masks used in every 4 hours). Disposable protective clothing and /or
disposable shoe covers can also be worn by both the flight and cabin crew if so,
required by a specific task.
Note: The procedure mentioned in high-risk flight is equally applicable for repatriation flights, freighter
flights, flights related to medical and other essential supplies and also for normal scheduled commercial
operations during COVID-19 period. Inflight monitoring of suspect case will be carried by cabin crew.
Three units of Personal Protective Equipment have been kept in each aircraft in the
mentioned compartments (A330: S1A05 and A320:S1-102) to take care of the suspected
passengers, who could show symptoms in-flight.
- Business class cabin will be used for donning and doffing of PPE.
- Crew should strictly follow the mention guideline as donning and doffing of the
PPE.
- Change of seat inflight will be allowed only with PIC Consent.
For Donning:
• Perform hand sanitizing process, alcohol-based hand sanitizer is highly
recommended. Completely rub overall surface of hand and rub
vigorously until it dry.
• To check that PPE items are sealed prior to use.
• Put on boot covers, perform hand hygiene
• Next don your isolation cover-all gown or apron. Open your gown fully,
put your head through the opening and arms into the sleeves. Fully
extend the back of the gown to cover your backside and be sure to secure
the gown.

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• Then, don your procedure or surgical mask (as the guideline provided in
Table 1). Make sure that the mask fully covers your nose and mouth, that
it pulled tightly under your chin and fit the bridge of the nose.
• Next, don your goggles or face visor (face shield) make sure they are of
proper in size and fit to the bridge of your head.
• Then, don your gloves. Make sure that they are of appropriate size. Put
them on so that the wrist extends up over the cuff of the gown. Do a final
check to make sure that your PPE is fully secure and without any defects.
Outer gloves can be facilitated to ensure the cuff are pullover the sleeves
of gown/ apron cover all.
For doffing

• Since crew are working on High risk Zone, make sure to put all PPE in
leak-proof bag for infectious waste.
• Inspect PPE for visible contamination or tears before doffing PPE.
• Firstly, disinfect gloves by using alcohol base hand rub.
• Remove boot cover, use hand free approach by stepping on the back of
the cover and lifting the foot, touch only inner part of the boot cover and
throw it to leak proof bag and disinfect the gloves again by using alcohol-
based hand rub.
• Removes goggles or face shield, lift back of strap over your head pull out
and away. Avoid touching the front surface of the goggles and disinfect
the gloves.
• If used, remove hood by unfastening hood. Grasp the back of the hood
and carefully remove by pulling backward.
• Remove over all gown / apron, avoid contacts of scrubs with outer
surface of coverall, touch only inside of coverall gown and disinfect the
gloves.
• Remove the gloves and disinfect and put the new pair of gloves.
• Lastly, remove the mask or respirators, tilt the head slightly forward.
First grasp bottom elastic straps or ties than the top elastics strap or ties
remove without touching the front of the mask directly dispose/ discard
into leak-free bin/ plastic bags and sealed properly.
• Remove the gloves and disinfect the hand using alcohol-based hand rub.
• Put the fresh mask after the doffing process is completed.

- Boarding of passengers is to be done row wise/zone wise in a manner that prescribed


distance is maintained.

- All operating crew as well as staff who need to go to the aircraft should undertake
all necessary effort to maintain the prescribed distance from travelling passengers as
well as themselves. The cabin crew should use the PPE available onboard
- Passengers are required to wear a surgical mask or facial mask with better filtering
capabilities throughout the journey, and in case of N95 masks, the ones without
breathing valves should be used. The requirement to put on masks mandatorily for
all passengers during check-in shall be ensured by the Check-in staff.
- Crew members should reduce entering the cockpit. Intercom system is recommended
for communication among crew members to avoid close contact.
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- For all cockpit services, only the IFS or the Cabin Crew- In- Charge will be assigned.
IFS will not serve in the cabin, except for abnormal or emergency situation requiring
his/her support and assistance. No cabin crew will be allowed in the cockpit unless
required. Food and beverages should be served in a contact free manner.
- Cabin crew should avoid close contact with passengers and only provide necessary
in- flight service. It is recommended to hand over pre-packaged food and bottled
water before or during boarding. Unless it is required specially, catering service
should not be provided onboard. Extra item will be served packed. In case of Hot Meal
service, minimum 2 sets of cabin crew for either of the aircraft to be on board.
- Cabin crew should be assigned to provide service for certain areas, and cabin crew
designated should provide basic service for the flight crew when needed. Efforts
should be made to arrange passengers to sit in separation and prohibit from moving
across different areas, to the extent possible. Passengers sitting in different cabin
areas should enplane and deplane in separate groups.
- Crew members should be divided into different groups while having simple meals in
different hours of the day. To reduce the risk of exposure, others should refrain from
walking around.
- The lavatory in the business class is to be used by crew member and business class passenger
only. After each use, cabin crew to properly clean/disinfect the lavatory for further use.. The
lavatory on the rear right side of the cabin is for the exclusive use by the suspected
case(s), and cabin crew should have complete PPE while cleaning the lavatory during
the flight, with the face masks changed, hands cleaned and disinfected right after the
completion of disinfection.
- Disposable earphones can be distributed in business class, in order to minimize the chances
of interactions based on IFE-issues
- Blankets and pillows will be distributed only in business class, once used will be sent
for laundry using appropriate measure.
- Pre-flight announcement will be made instructing passengers to remove their masks/
face shield in case of depressurization, and to put on oxygen masks.

- Additional Safety announcement will be made by cabin crew regarding COVID -19
procedure.
- The Isolation seats [A320: 27 D, E, F and 28 D, E, F (Total 6 seats) and
A330: 38 G, H, and 39 G, H, (Total 4 seats] should be reserved as quarantine areas
for the handling of possible in-flight emergencies
- No crew members should be allowed to disembark the aircraft (ground handlers
should be requested to do external inspections, refueling, etc.) while doing the flights
to the high-risk areas.
- No ground personnel should be allowed to embark the aircraft unless all cabin-
clearing activities have been accomplished and signaled positively by the IFS or the
Cabin crew- In- Charge.
If any crew member shows symptoms such as fever, fatigue or dry cough during the duty, s/he should
cease performing his/her duties immediately. It is recommended to put him/her under the quarantine
in dedicated isolated seats to avoid close contact with other crew members. If s/he has a history
of epidemiology, after the flight has landed and the passengers

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and other crew members have deplaned, a special vehicle should be sent, carrying him/her to
a designated medical facility for examination. Other crew members should be put under
centralized quarantine, and where conditions do not allow, they can be put under house
quarantine and medical observation

Scoring Recommendations on the Rating of Flight Epidemic Risk Level Classification

1 2 3 4 5

FACTOR Confirmed cases in the <50 50-100 101-500 501-1000 >1000


place of origin(N)

Passenger Load (%) <40 40-80 >80 — —

Duration of flight(H) <4 4-8 >8 — —

Note:
1. Origin cases should be defined by country (data source: WHO)
2. Flights without high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtering system should be
deemed as high- risk flights.
3. Risk levels can be upgraded accordingly in case of emergencies and special flights.
4. According to the sum of scores, risk lives can be divided into high,
medium and low.
Low risk flights: 3-4
Medium risk flights :5-7
High risk flights: 8-11

Example: Assuming a flight to depart from a country whose confirmed cases is 800 would
fall in the bracket (501-1000) earning 4 points. Further, assuming the flight has a load of
60% meaning it would fall in the 40-80% bracket earning further 2 points. Finally, for a
flight duration of 4.5 hours, would place the flight in 4-8 hours bracket earning another 2
points.

Thus, summing up, 4 (Confirmed cases points) + 2 (load factor points) + 2 (Flight duration
points) = 8 points making this flight a High-Risk flight, requiring the High-Risk flight
operating procedure to be implemented.

6.3.4 Handling of in-flight suspected case(s)


A communicable disease is suspected when a traveler (passenger or a crew member) has a
fever (temperature 38 C/ 100 F or greater) associated with one or more of the following signs
or symptoms;
- Appearing obviously unwell
- Persistent coughing
- Impaired breathing
- Persistent diarrhea
- Persistent vomiting
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- Skin rash
- Bruising or bleeding without previous injury
- Confusion of recent onset

Crew should follow the following the procedures if a passenger or crew develops the
aforementioned signs and symptoms

- First aid and other medical intervention should be provided when necessary for
passengers and crews.
-
- If medical ground support or an on-board health professional is available crew should
follow their medical advice accordingly.

- Separate the ill person from the other passengers by minimum of one meter (usually
about two seats left empty in all directions, depending in the cabin, design) from the
seat occupied by the suspected case. Where possible this should be done by moving
other passenger away or if possible, as an on-board emergency quarantine; the last three
rows of the cabin can be transformed into emergency quarantine.

- Ask the ill person to wear a medical mask and practice respiratory hygiene when
coughing or sneezing. If the medical mask cannot be tolerated by the ill person, cabin
crew shall provide tissue to cover mouth.

- Designate one crew member to look after the ill traveler, preferably the crew member
that has already been dealing with the traveler. If touching the ill passenger is required
(or their mask/contaminated clothes, etc.) or if there is a risk of direct contact with the
body fluid, the designated crew should use the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
provided in the designated areas otherwise, use the PPE from the Universal Precaution
Kit and if there are more than one suspected ill traveler, consider the change of PPE
between each patient to avoid possible cross-contamination. Crew should make sure not
to touch other service utensils or cutlery after tending to an ill traveler and minimize
close contacts (within 2 meters) with other crew members

- Store soiled items (used tissues, face mask, oxygen mask and tubing, linen, pillows,
blankets, seat pocket items, etc. in a bio-hazard bag if one is available. If not, place in
an intact plastic bag seal it and label its “biohazard” which should be kept in a proper
place temporarily to prevent it from missing, being damaged or contaminating meals
on board.

- Ensure hand carried cabin baggage follows the ill traveler and comply with public
health authority requests.

- Symptomatic travelers should disembark the aircraft according to instructions from the
airport health authority to minimize the risk of contaminating other passengers, crew
members, and ground personnel. Symptomatic travelers will be assessed for their
condition and exposure at the designated facility of the airport and, if they fulfill the
definition of a suspected case, will be transferred to designated health care facility.

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6.3.5 Obligations for aircraft operators, airlines and aircraft with suspected case(s) on
board.
The Pilot-In-Command is required by the International Civil Aviation Organization regulations
(ICAO Annex 9, Chapter 8, and paragraph 8.15) and the World Health Organization
International Health Regulations [WHOIHR 2005, Article 28(4)] to report the suspected
cases(S) to air traffic control. Specific cleaning and disinfection procedures may be required by
local public health authorities

6.3.6 Disinfection of the aircraft


Disinfection refers to specific measures taken to control, deactivate or kill infectious agents,
such as viruses and bacteria. Based on the guidelines and recommendations from WHO, Nepal
Airlines has been applying the below mentioned methods for the disinfection of the aircraft.

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6.3.6.1 Disinfection: Preflight/Post-flight


Disinfection of the aircraft is being carried out on prior to departure of each flight from base
and upon arrival of the aircraft at Kathmandu. This disinfection procedure with limited residual
effect is applied to the flight deck and passenger cabin, including toilet areas, open overhead
and sidewall lockers, coat lockers, cargo compartments and crew rest areas. The spray is
applied before the passenger’s board the aircraft, at least one hour before the doors are closed.

6.3.6.2 Disinfection: Top- of-descent


Top-of-descent spraying is carried out when the aircraft starts its descent to the arrival airport.
An aerosol containing 2% D-phenothrin is currently recommended by the WHO for this
purpose.
• IFS(Purser) or C-I-C should check the availability of aerosols for the aforementioned
disinfection methods whenever passengers are carried on board and make a request to
the Maintenance personnel, if not available onboard the aircraft.
Proof of Disinfection may be fulfilled by filling the details on the General Declaration.

Further, Previous Instructions on Safe operating procedures issued through the Operations
Department to all crew, are still in effect until further Notice:
1. Basic sanitation such as usage of gloves and cough/sneeze etiquettes
2. Frequent usage of Sanitizers and respecting social-distancing norms to the extent
possible
3. Mandatory masks while on duty
4. Suspension of Breathalyzers
5. Keeping ON Cabin recirculation fans

6. Non-touch Infrared thermometers are made available in the aircraft for usage on
suspected passengers (normal temperature screening is done by Airline Ground staff
and Airport Health Authority now)
7. Cabin crew will continue to make the In-flight Announcements of relevant authority to
where the flight is being operated, based on previous circulars.
8. For UAE Operations, all safety cards will be collected upon landing at any UAE airports
as well as KTM for necessary disinfection prior to being kept in aircraft again.
9. There will be enough Disposable (Vomit) Bags to cater for both legs of the flight to UAE
to dispose Passenger masks.
10. Toilet covers are available in RNA Fleet also Pictorial instructions for hand hygiene
will be kept in lavatory.
11. Personal) items (masks, gloves etc.) from passengers will not be handled by cabin crew
and Items that can be shared (perfume bottles) will be removed from aircraft.
Applicable parts of this procedure shall be in effect for all staff involved in Maintenance,
Ground Handling, Customer Handling and all other staff directly involved in the front-line.

Note: For UAE Operations, track and ensure compliance with quarantine measures applied in
the emirates, through Country Manager of UAE

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6.4 Introduction to Operation and Training Plan


NAC at the request of the Government of Nepal and other relevant agencies has agreed to be a
part of the solution to the travel restrictions imposed due to COVID crisis and presents the plan
for approval to operate special flights to facilitate the repatriation of passengers to and from
Nepal.
CAAN has published guidance documents as Appendix to its regulatory publications to
alleviate the difficulties faced by operators in COVID-19 like situations. The following latest
publications guide the operator to formulate policies on deviations from normal operations that
are acceptable to the regulator.
• Appendix-1 Variations to existing flight and duty time limitations
• Appendix-2 Recent experience requirements pilot-in-command, co-pilot and cruise relief
pilot
• Appendix-3 Flight Crew Member Training Programs
• Appendix-4 Minimum Cabin Crew Requirements when Transporting Cargo in the
Passenger Cabin
• Appendix-5 Cabin Crew Recurrent Training Requirements
• Appendix-6 Flight Crew License and rating validity extension
• Appendix-7 Medical Assessment - Certificate Validity Extension
• Appendix-8 Airplane recent experience – ARA
• Appendix 9 Recency - Heli
• Appendix 10 – DGR Training
• Appendix 11 – PPC Validity Extension

NAC will endeavor to correct these deviations at the first available instance where training
action has been deferred due to non-availability of access to facilities which are not located at
Kathmandu.
The return to normal operations with respect to crew training will be prioritized on date of lapse
of recency of pilots and cabin crew.

6.4.1 In-flight Contingencies


Planned operations may be disrupted due to various reasons. The most probable ones are
Medical Emergency of passengers, Crew incapacitation or Diversion due to weather or
Technical reasons.
Where applicable, Collaborative Decision-Making process is most preferred. This does not
stop the PIC from acting in the interest of overall safety.
1. IOCC will keep Flight Watch till the aircraft lands back at Kathmandu and will
provide Ops Support to the diverted flight
2. Diversion management is a coordinated effort between the Crew, IOCC and the
airlines’ partner for aircraft handling at off-line stations. Existing SOP for diversion
handling is mentioned in the IOCC Ops Manual
3. Since no two situations are similar, all decisions other than operational decisions
which are made by the PIC of the flight, will be made by IOCC in coordination with
the relevant Heads of Departments with good weightage given to the opinion of the
PIC who is in-situ

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6.4.2 In-flight Medical Emergencies


As mentioned in the Corporate Plan and SOP for Covid-19, 6.3.4 Handling of in-flight
suspected cases(s).

6.4.3 Crew facilitation


Crew has to be provided with
1. Flight folder via email in advance to minimise time spent in the dispatch and reduce
reporting time. This will also to some extent minimise exposure to COVID-19
2. Adequate nutrition and hydration on board which is healthy, light and fresh
3. Timely transportation on ground to reduce stress and increase sleep time available
4. Ground transportation shall follow social distancing norms as far as possible.
5. Crew roster and rotation plan with Rest Guide to help crew manage the Sleep / Wake
cycle
6. Resting facility on board for all crew that is being positioned or for in-flight rests
7. Each crew should fill the COVID-19 status card attached in Appendix 2

6.4.4 Aircraft Dispatch Conditions


To avoid additional stress for the crew operating in E-DT, NAC shall ensure the following
1. No MEL dispatch that will require complex actions by the crew in-flight with the
failure. (Example, CPC 1& 2, ATS, etc.,)
2. Adequate additional fuel on board as fuel for hold at destination. 1 ton for A320 and 2
tons for A330

6.5 Recent Experience Requirements


Recency requirements for Flight Crew as mentioned in NAC OM-A is for a crew to have at
least 3 T/O & LDG Operations failing which the crew is expected to accomplish the same in a
certified FSTD or aircraft. Due to the COVID-19 circumstances and reduced flight operations
either may not be possible leading to degradation in route knowledge and flying skills that may
lead to hazardous situations.
NAC formulation to mitigate this related hazard is
1. Grouping crew recency status as
a. Fully complaint – Crew meets the requirements
b. Partially compliant – Crew has 1-2 TO/LDG Ops credit
c. Not compliant – Crew has 0 TO/LDG Ops credit
2. To maintain acceptable level of safety the crew roster will ensure that
a. A crew set has at least one crew from Group A paired with Group C crew
b. Group B crew to have at least 50% of crew with high level of cumulative
experience
c. All crew have past experience on similar routes
d. MEL Dispatch restricted to items that do not increase complexity of
operations in-flight in normal operations. The OD or Chief Pilot of the fleet
may permit operation on a case to case basis in such a situation to return to
base.

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6.6 Crew Training Program


Flight Crew Training to maintain continuity of license and privileges is near impossible due to
lack of local training facilities and other COVID-19 related restrictions resulting in less than
optimal situation where the erosion in crew knowledge and skills.
NAC will limit this erosion by conducting knowledge-based course in classrooms while
maintaining the recommended restrictions for crew who are due for PC/RT and other ground
courses that are operationally essential like Tech/Perf refresher, DGR etc.
This classroom time will refresh the crew on
1. ECAM Handling, Application of Procedures – (ABN & SPO)
2. CRM
3. DGR
4. Technical & Performance limitations
5. Memory items
6. UPART elements
7. Monsoon elements
8. Recent changes, if any
9. Q&A session followed by a Quiz
This will be followed up by the approved training program as soon as possible and practicable.

6.6.1 IOCC Actions


IOCC to ensure that before release of a flight
1. All FIRs are informed about the crew flying with lapsed qualification with
dispensation from CAAN due COVID-19 or ensure that such dispensation is
permitted

2. Alternatively, IOCC can ensure that over-flight and operated country accept the
dispensation by logging into ICAO website and looking into CCRD/EFOD on applied
differences.
3. ***For flights with cumulative block of more than 36 hours Club Class section must
be reserved as Crew Rest Area***

6.7 Minimum Cabin Crew in Cabin on Cargo flights


The minimum Cabin Crew compliment for Cargo operations with Cargo in seats is 2 for A320
and 3 for A330.
A review of handling on-board fire and smoke is must for every preflight briefing.
An SOP for scanning the cabin at fixed intervals to check the security of the cargo and vigilance
on unusual smells or seepage from the packages on-board stowed on seats or in the overhead
baggage bins.

6.8 Medical Assessment Validity Extension


As per CAAN

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6.9 Area, Route & Aerodrome Qualifications


Additionally, a thorough route briefing will be conducted along with a review of ATC
procedures, escape procedures where applicable and any hazards that are listed in OM-C on
that route during pre-flight briefing.
Special attention to be paid to ATC procedures that are in practice using the Route Manual
provided alongside the OM-C information.

6.10 DGR Training Validity Extension


DGR Training validity extension as per CAAN’s dispensation.
During this period of extension, all Crew to review the consequences of carrying DGR on board
before commencement of a flight based on the information given to the crew.
IOCC will include the information on carriage of DGR in the Flight Folder during pre-
departure briefing. This information has to be shared with the cabin crew too and logged
accordingly.

6.11 PPC Validity Extension


PPC validity extension is as per CAAN’s dispensation.
As a stopgap measure to maintain safety levels due to erosion in knowledge and skills, the
following measures are in place.
1. Any crew who has not had the benefit of Recurrent Training within 8 months of the
last RT/PC will have to attend the classes mentioned in Para 3.0
2. The first flight of the affected crew shall be with a TRE/TRI/LTC of the fleet or else,
with a PIC who has >10000 HRS in Total and >3000 HRS on type with recent flying
experience.
3. Crew being utilized with extended validity of PPC, shall be required to follow
restricted Aerodrome Operating Minima as follows:
• DH/MDA +100 ft.
• Visibility /RVR + 400m
• Max Crosswind limitation reduced by one third rounded off to the lower
value.

Once pandemic is over Nepal Airlines Operation Manual Part A will


supersede this SOP.

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Risk Assessments

6.11.1 Extension of FDP – FRA Form


Fatigue Factor Assessment and Mitigation Table
DATE ETD BLK TIME ETA
07-Jun-20 02:10 06:00 07/06/2020 08:10
Fatigue Factor Worst Cases: Mitigated: Comment:
Previous night sleep ** reduced <
0 ---
4h (night: 22-08 LT)
Previous night sleep ** reduced >
Sleep Debt

0 ---
4h
Reduced night sleep> 4h before
--- ---
previous night **
Previous "night duty" ** (day sleep
--- ---
only)
Time since awake prior duty start >
--- ---
2h prior C/I*
Wakefulness

Time since awake prior duty start >


--- ---
6h prior C/I*
Time on task > 10h (FDT) 0 Crew rotation plan
Time on task > 12h < 14 h (FDT) 1 Crew rotation plan
Circadian disruption > 4h ** Crew well rested before and after flight with
0 ---
no consecutive WOCL instances
Circadian Factors

Flight after 2300LT or last landing


1
during darkness
Take-off or Landing in WOCL 1
Flight time > 2h during WOCL (02-
0
06 LT)
3 or 4 consecutive flights/ sectors ---
5 or 6 flights/ or: 3 flights during
---
night
Workload

Known hassles (MEL, WX,


0
REDISPATCH, ATC)
Training flight 0
Airport Category "C" KTM is home base. All crew have sufficient
1 1
familiarity & experience
Sum of fatigue factors 4 1
Net Fatigue factor after
Results

3
mitigation
Mark every line: 1= relevant; 0 =actively avoided; --- =not present
Assessment of fatigue factors:
0-3 relevant factors: accept * Crew member's responsibility
4-6 relevant factors: check ** Depending on preceding duty
7-9 relevant factors: mitigate *** The night before 2 consecutive nights are relevant
>10 relevant factors: not acceptable
Factors are not fully weighed!
Most important factors are sleep debt, wakefulness. Circadian factors then workload in this order.
Thanks to Tritschler 2016; ICAO Fatigue Management Symposium 2016 – (Modified)

Assessed by _______________________ Signature ___________________Date__________

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6.11.2 Risk Assessment for Lack of Recency in Knowledge, Skills, Training &
Assessments

Revised
Problem Severity Mitigation
Severity
1. Crew combination as mentioned in
Chapter 6.5
2. Classroom time to reinforce the
degradation expected with focus on
Lack of Recurrent Training important aspects mentioned in
& Proficiency Checks within 3C Chapter 6.6 1C
the prescribed time limits 3. Ban on using approaches that require
lower minima in normal situations
4. FDM for trend monitoring in
degradation of skills or application of
procedures etc.,
1. Crew combination as mentioned in
Chapter 6.5
2. Advanced route navigation
information system like Jepp FD Pro
Lack of recency on Area, with easy to access and use
Route & Aerodromes within 2C information 1D
the prescribed time limits 3. Fully controlled airspace with
comprehensive monitoring by ATC
4. Standing instruction on maximum use
of automation in all phases of the
flight
1. Standing instruction on maximum use
of automation in all phases of the
Erosion of Skills due to flight
2. Crew combination as mentioned in
infrequent, sparse flying or 3B Chapter 6.5
1D
lack of flying in 90 days
3. Enhanced pre-flight briefing
4. Ban on using approaches that require
lower minima in normal situations
1. Abbreviated refresher on subjects
mentioned in Chapter 6.6
2. Mix of crew with higher experience
Lack of Tech & Perf, CRM, levels to ensure better knowledge pool
DGR refresher within the 2C 3. Enhanced pre-flight briefing on 1E
prescribed time limits missions that are non-routine
4. No carriage of DGR on the main deck
5. DGR information at the dispatch for
better preparedness and briefing

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Note: Referring to 1.3.1.1, For UAE Operations, if layover is considered, Risk matrix
(approved by competent authority) will be established and will be assessed weekly.

Whenever layover is approved by competent Authority the following should be considered:


1. Layover should be minimal (not exceeding 24 hours).
2. Hotel should only be inside the airport or safe hotel nearby the airport.
3. Transportation should be through a contracted provider known to the airline and public
transport or taxis should be avoided.
4. Crew are not allowed to leave hotel and airline should accordingly establish a monitoring
process.
5. Food should be delivered in the room and access to buffet, bar and restaurant should not be
allowed.
6. No visiting or visitors should be allowed.
7. Leaving premises should not be allowed unless medical emergency

Safety Risk Assessment Matrix

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Appendices

APPENDIX -1- PASSENGER COVID-19 STATUS CARD

(Source: CAAN Guidance to Airlines, Airports and Ground Services for Operations during COVID-19)

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APPENDIX-2 CREW COVID-19 STATUS CARD

(Source: CAAN Guidance to Airlines, Airports and Ground Services for Operations during COVID-19)

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APPENDIX-3 Passenger Locator Card (International Flight)

Source: CAAN OPERATIONAL GUIDANCE COVID-19 (JUNE 2020

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APPENDIX 4- PASSENGER LOCATOR CARD (DOMESTIC FLIGHT)

(Source: CAAN Guidance to Airlines, Airports and Ground Services for Operations during COVID-19)

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APPENDIX-5 Traveler Public Health Declaration Form

Source: TIA COVID-19 Crisis Manage

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