Eritrea: Very limited number of commercial flights operating as of May 5 following earlier COVID-19-related suspension /update 11

Eritrea allowing very limited number of commercial flights as of May 5 following earlier COVID-19-related suspension.

Event

A very limited number of international commercial flights have resumed service to and from Eritrea as of May 5 following an earlier flight suspension due to COVID-19 activity. All incoming passengers arriving at Asmara International Airport (ASM) must provide a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before arrival. Incoming travelers are also subject to a rapid COVID-19 antigen test upon arrival in Eritrea. Additionally, all arriving passengers with permanent residence in Asmara are required to self-quarantine for seven days in their homes after entering the country. All other passengers must stay in government-designated facilities for the same period at their own expense. Persons seeking to depart Eritrea require a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.

Public transportation is operating and academic activities have resumed. Measures that remain in place include:

Private vehicles and other individual means of transportation may not operate; trucks, however, may be used for freight services only.
All trading enterprises will be closed except for retail stores. All essential businesses must close by 20:00 daily.
Restaurants, entertainment venues, and religious services remain closed.
Major manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, and construction sectors remain open.
All government institutions have suspended routine operations and nonessential services. Government operations have been reduced to essential functions only, including providing public safety, security, and public utilities.
Funeral and mourning services may be held with a maximum of 10 persons. Other social events are prohibited.

Land and sea borders remain closed; cargo and freight will likely be subject to enhanced screening measures.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.