New Delhi: The DGCA issued an order on Sunday, the new guidelines of air travel in the country, leaving the middle seat vacant. Air lines have been allowed to keep middle seats occupied, too if flight have high passengers load. Passenger seated on the middle seat will need to be given a wraparound gown in addition to face mask and shield.

The DGCA in its order said among other things, mandate strain to keep the seat between two passengers vacant. The order, a fallout of judicial observations, is binding on all air lines, charter and private jet operators, whether Indian or Foreign operating, Domestic or International flights. It also said no meals or drinking water shall be served on board except in extreme circumstances arising due to health reasons.

These will be implemented on domestic and International flights of two or three hour duration. On longer flights, packed meals can be served to minimize crew-passenger contact, said an official. The new things in the order are: Air lines shall allot seats such that the middle seat is vacant. Members of same family may be allowed to sit together. If middle is occupied then additional protective shall be provided to passengers.