The airline Vistara got into trouble in the Chinese special administrative region of Hong Kong, because the authorities accuse the carrier of importing 47 Covid cases on a single flight. All travelers could have negative results prior to departure, but those made upon entry into Hong Kong were positive. For the carrier, this means first of all: no flight into the special administrative area.

The entry requirements of Hong Kong are similar to those of China, but are not completely identical. In principle, only residents and people with a few exceptions are allowed to enter the Special Administrative Region. A PCR test must be completed before departure. This must not be older than 72 hours. After landing, the Hong Kong government orders another smear test. The people have to stay in a specified quarantine accommodation for 21 days. In the meantime, further tests can be carried out.

The passengers on Vistara Flight 6395, which was operated from Delhi to Hong Kong, all had negative PCR results. Before the start of the quarantine, all inmates were tested again and six people were positive. At the end of last week, another 25 passengers who were on board the flight in question tested positive and on the twelfth day there were another 22 positive cases. So far, 47 passengers have tested positive for Covid-19. All are still in the Hong Kong government-assigned quarantine facility.

Infections probably on board

Particular attention is paid to a seat card that is circulating on the Internet. This shows that the virus has apparently spread in the economy class. Possibly via the air conditioning system or movements on board, this gradually spread through the entire cabin. This incident is in stark contrast to claims by the industry that, due to Hepa filters, infections on board aircraft are almost impossible. The effectiveness of masks is also not available, as they can be legally removed for eating and drinking, for example. In any case, it can be assumed that the Vistara on-board cluster will be closely monitored by many governments.

When asked by the airline concerned, Aviation Direct said: “Vistara ensures that all guidelines of the Indian and the authorities of the destination countries are strictly adhered to for all flights, including all charter flights to and from Hong Kong. We will continue to be guided by any new requirements that may be introduced ”.