Using PCR test results certainly has a higher accuracy than rapid antigen testsJakarta (ANTARA) - Air travelers entering and leaving Java-Bali islands as well as regions with Level 3 and 4 PPKM (public activity restrictions) are now required to carry a negative PCR test report, the COVID-19 Task Force has informed.
"Using PCR test results certainly has a higher accuracy than rapid antigen tests," COVID-19 Handling Task Force spokesperson Wiku Adisasmito said at a press conference on "Domestic Travel Regulations Following The COVID-19 Case Decline" here on Thursday.
PCR tests must be taken within a maximum period of 2 x 24 hours before the flight, he added.
The testing requirement has been narrowed to just PCR because there is currently no implementation of seat distancing in airplanes, he explained.
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According to him, the PCR test requirement is a part of the mobility easing trial to boost economic recovery in areas where COVID-19 has been controlled.
"PCR is a good standard of testing and is more sensitive than an antigen test in tracking positive cases," he added.
Adisasmito also said that air travelers to and from Java-Bali islands and areas under Level 3 and 4 PPKM will also be required to show a vaccine certificate proof. They will need to show that they have at least obtained the first dose of vaccine, he added.
"For air transportation modes, it is mandatory to show two documents which are the vaccine certificate at least the first dose and a certificate of a negative PCR test result," he reiterated.
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To optimize COVID-19 prevention in air transportation, airlines are required to prepare three rows of vacant seats for instances when travelers show symptoms, he expounded.
The latest rules on domestic travel were made on cross-sector decisions that have considered the current case situation and the readiness of facilities and infrastructure supporting the health protocols on-field, Adisasmito said.
"This decision is stipulated in many policies, which are the circulars of Task Force No. 21 of 2021, Instruction of the Minister of Home Affairs No. 53 and 54 of 2021, and circulars of the Ministry of Transportation No. 88 of 2021," he explained.
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Translator: Zubi M, Kenzu T
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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