08 Dec 2020 | 08:23 PM UTC
Nicaragua: International passenger airlines continue flight suspension to and from Nicaragua through at least December; all ports of entry are opened /update 7
International passenger airlines contine flight suspension to and from Nicaragua through at least December; all ports of entry are opened.
Event
Most commercial airlines serving Nicaragua continue to delay the resumption of flight operations in the country through at least late December, with some only intending to resume operations as late as January 2021. As of early December, only Avianca Airlines (AV) and some charter services are offering flights to and from Nicaragua.
Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) in Managua remains open, and domestic flights and cargo transportation continue to operate amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. All travelers arriving in Nicaragua are required to present a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. Nonresident foreign nationals showing symptoms of the disease will not be permitted to enter, while citizens and legal residents who show symptoms are required to self-quarantine.
The government has not officially announced any closures of its land and sea ports of entry or any significant restrictions on domestic movements and business operations. However, some sea vessels have been denied entry. Disruptions to travel at land, sea, and air ports of entry are likely to persist despite the border being opened. Heightened screening measures at the land borders could cause some delays to cargo transportation and other cross-border travel. All measures are subject to amendment at short notice.
Context
Airlines initially suspended their flights until early September due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but have subsequently repeatedly postponed restarting flights. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the later postponements are linked to very tight restrictions implemented by the Nicaraguan government, which most carriers are unable or unwilling to meet.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Plan for potential cross-border travel delays. Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with a disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.
