Air Bubble Agreement India and Its Importance for International Travel
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused massive disruptions in the travel industry worldwide, and India has been no exception. With the country’s borders closed for several months, international travel had come to a complete standstill. However, with the implementation of the Air Bubble Agreement, India has opened up for international travel with select countries.
What is the Air Bubble Agreement?
The Air Bubble Agreement is a temporary arrangement between two countries to resume commercial passenger flights. Under this agreement, airlines from each country are allowed to operate a fixed number of flights to specific destinations. The arrangement is made to facilitate travel for essential purposes such as business, employment, medical emergencies, and stranded Indian nationals.
Which countries have signed the Air Bubble Agreement with India?
India has signed Air Bubble Agreements with 27 countries so far, including UAE, UK, France, Germany, Canada, Maldives, and Japan. With this, Indian citizens can travel between these countries and India, subject to certain conditions.
What are the conditions for air travel under the Air Bubble Agreement?
Before boarding a flight to India, passengers must register on the Indian Embassy website and provide a negative COVID-19 test report. The test must be conducted within a specified number of hours before boarding the flight.
Passengers arriving in India from the Air Bubble countries are not required to undergo institutional quarantine if they have a negative COVID-19 test report. However, they need to self-isolate at home for 14 days and monitor their health status.
The Air Bubble Agreement is significant for international travelers as it offers a safe and regulated way to travel during the pandemic. It also provides a vital lifeline for the travel industry and the economy of several countries.
In conclusion, the Air Bubble Agreement between India and other countries has come as a significant relief for international travelers amidst the pandemic. However, passengers must strictly follow the guidelines and protocols set by the respective governments to ensure the safety of all. As the situation evolves, the Indian government is likely to expand the list of countries with which it has signed Air Bubble Agreements, providing more travel options for those who need it.