Air Namibia resumed domestic flights last week, as President Hage Geingob announced a four-stage strategy for Namibia to exit its COVID-19 lockdown.

Corporate Communications Officer for External Relations at Air Namibia, Twaku Kayofa, told Tourism Update that the national carrier was operating all seven of its domestic routes and that there was no social distancing on aircraft.

“According to Iata, of which Air Namibia is a proud member, evidence suggests that the risk of transmission on board the aircraft is low,” said Kayofa.

“Mask wearing by passengers will reduce the transmission and we are disinfecting our aircraft with more frequent and deeper cabin cleaning regularly, to further curb the spread of the coronavirus.”

Both passengers and crew members are required to wear masks in public spaces and throughout the flight and Air Namibia is conducting mandatory temperature screening of passengers and crew before boarding.

Kayofa said since restarting operations, the airline had continued to encourage passengers to use its online platforms for booking reservations, booking changes and issuing of tickets. Air Namibia is offering a 10% discount on all online bookings.

“Although regional and international flights are suspended, Air Namibia remains available to offer air transport through charter flights worldwide for humanitarian purposes, as well as to airlift pharmaceutical supplies, consumables, and all essential services.”