India’s aviation regulator DGCA has asked airlines to keep middle seats vacant, a week after domestic flights services resumed after the lockdown.
However it is not a set in stone mandate.
Middle seats should be blocked ‘to the extent possible.’
Where this is not possible, passengers allocated a middle seat should be provided with ‘additional protective equipment like a wrap-around gown conforming to Ministry of Textile approved standards.’
In addition they should be given a a three-layered face mask and face shield.
"The airlines shall allot the seats in such a manner that the middle seat/seat between two passengers is kept vacant if the passenger load and seat capacity permits it," the regulator said.
"However, members of the same family may be allowed to sit together," it added.
Domestic flights resume a week ago after a two-month hiatus due to the nationwide lockdown.
International services are still suspended until at least the end of June.
